Joho shuts down mining operations over hazards

Mining Cabinet Secretary Hassan Joho has ordered an immediate halt to all mining activities in Jaribuni, Kauma Sub-County, Kilifi County, following protests by residents over health hazards.

Speaking at a meeting with mining investors at the Kilifi governor’s residence, Joho also demanded full disclosure of all revenues remitted by the firms.

He directed the 20 companies mining manganese and ballast in the area to suspend operations until they present a concrete plan to address pollution concerns.

“There are issues we cannot compromise. Supporting infrastructure is not a favor—it’s a business, and people must benefit,” Joho said.

He emphasized that every mining operation must have a Community Development Agreement Committee and commit at least one percent of gross revenue to fund projects chosen by the community.

The mining firms have been accused of polluting the environment, failing to remit royalties, and neglecting road maintenance, leading to dusty and hazardous conditions. “My directive is that mining operations remain suspended until we reach an agreement. I will send the secretary for mines to enforce this order and engage all stakeholders before I consider lifting it,” Joho stated.

He also warned companies against defying the directive, vowing to reopen operations only if they comply with mining laws and sign cooperation agreements with local residents.

Attempts by Khalif Yasir Khan, a spokesperson for the mining firms, to negotiate with the government were unsuccessful. While acknowledging past mistakes, Khan pledged that companies would cooperate, starting with fixing roads by supplying 1,000 tonnes of gravel each.

This is not Joho’s first crackdown on mining in Kilifi. In January, he shut down a cement factory in Rabai Sub-County for violating mining regulations.

Residents living near mining sites have long complained about air pollution from dust and chemicals, which they say has led to widespread respiratory illnesses. Kilifi Governor Gideon Mung’aro, urged the companies to prioritize community safety.[Nehemiah Okwembah]

Earlier in the week, hundreds of Jaribuni residents staged protests, blocking key roads leading to the mining sites. They barricaded the Dzitsoni-Jaribuni, Mnarani-Ngamani, and Majajani-Jaribuni roads, decrying the severe dust pollution that has turned their villages into “dust coats.”