Residents of Nabemo in Mautuma Ward, Lugari Constituency, Kakamega County, are calling for urgent government intervention over an abandoned quarry that has remained open, and dangerous, for nearly five decades.
The quarry, dug in 1975 during the construction of the Webuye–Misikhu Road in Bungoma County, was once a source of murram. Today, it stands as a 27-foot-deep, water-filled hazard, located just a few meters from several homesteads.
Locals say the site has become a death trap, a hideout for criminals, and a breeding ground for dangerous wildlife. Livestock have drowned in its waters, and young people reportedly use the area to smoke bhang and engage in criminal activities.
The most recent incident occurred on 12 December 2024, when 12-year-old Joseph Lusule, a Grade 6 pupil at Nabemo Comprehensive School, drowned while playing near the quarry.
His grandmother, Elizabeth Queen Angelina, told the Western Kenya Times (WKT) that the tragedy could have been avoided had authorities acted on years of complaints from residents.
“It took us two days to find his body,” she said, recounting the painful search. “At first, we didn’t know what had happened because the children who were with him had been told by their parents not to speak.”
It was only after intervention by Mautuma Chief Pamela Davava that the children confessed the truth: Joseph had drowned while swimming.
The long school holiday, Elizabeth added, has intensified fear among parents whose children frequently play around the unfenced quarry. Livestock deaths have also become more frequent, compounding community frustration.
Residents demand accountability
For decades, locals have appealed to leaders and government agencies to either fence off, drain, or rehabilitate the quarry. They warn that unless immediate action is taken, more lives could be lost.
“It’s not just about my grandchild,” Elizabeth said. “This is a danger to the entire community.”
She also expressed disappointment that no government official has visited her family since the burial.
County environment office acknowledges the problem
Officials from the Kakamega County Ministry of Environment, under Madam Moraa, confirmed awareness of the quarry’s dangers. Moraa, who said she recently took over the docket, pledged to follow up and explore possible intervention measures.
But for residents, promises are no longer enough.
As the abandoned quarry continues to threaten lives, the people of Nabemo are urging both county and national government agencies, including the Mautuma Ward administration, to act swiftly.
Their demand is clear: secure the quarry before another preventable tragedy occurs.
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