The State Department for Mining has urged artisanal miners in Siaya County to halt underground mining activities before the anticipated El Niño rains, citing the risk of fatal mine collapses.

County Inspector of Mines Tikani Morris made the appeal during a Mazingira Day event at Karapul Junior School, noting that increased soil moisture during heavy rainfall raises the likelihood of cave‑ins.

Morris emphasized that most mining deaths stem from collapses and that saturated soil can cause underground shafts to give way at any moment.

He appealed to miners to lay down tools, return to their farms, and wait until the rainy season ends before resuming work.

Authorities warned that legal action will be taken against any miner who disregards the safety directive during the heavy rains.

The county recorded four mine‑related fatalities in the 2025–2026 reporting period, a drop compared with earlier years.

Long‑term reforms aim to bring informal miners into cooperatives, secure official permits and improve safety standards across the sector.

Siaya currently hosts more than 12 registered mining cooperatives, several of which already hold mining licences.

The Ministry of Mining is working with National Government Administrative Officers to hold community awareness forums and enforce safety regulations.