Kisumu governor Prof Peter Anyang’ Nyong’o has issued a stern warning against rampant environmental degradation in Kisumu County, vowing to crack down on illegal sand harvesting, mining, and murram excavation that threaten the region’s ecosystem.
Speaking at a press briefing on Tuesday, governor Nyong’o condemned unchecked exploitation of natural resources, particularly in Kisumu East’s Kajulu area, and other hotspots like Odhenyo Hills, Kanyakwar, Nyakach, and Usoma Beach. He noted that both public and private lands, including the gazetted Karateng’ Forest, have been invaded by unscrupulous individuals seeking profit at the environment’s expense.
“We are staring at an environmental catastrophe,” Nyong’o warned, citing devastating consequences such as land degradation, destruction of fish breeding grounds, and road damage. He also highlighted social issues linked to the crisis, including school dropouts, drug abuse, and increased crime.
To curb the menace, the governor outlined strict legal measures, including adherence to the Environmental Management and Coordination Act (EMCA) of 1999, the Mining Act of 2016, and the Kisumu County Sand, Murram, and Minerals Harvesting Guidelines of 2021. He emphasized that offenders will face hefty fines, mandatory restoration of damaged areas, and legal action.
Going forward, Kisumu County will intensify enforcement efforts in collaboration with the National Environment Management Authority (NEMA) and the County Environment Committee. Governor Nyong’o urged residents to take responsibility, stating, “The greatest threat to Earth is the belief that someone else will save it.”
