Five people have died after a gold mine collapsed in Kilimapesa, Transmara, Narok County, trapping several miners underground as rescue operations continue and authorities investigate the cause.
Five people are reportedly dead after a gold mine collapsed last evening in the Kilimapesa area in Transmara, Narok County.
The five were part of a group that was buried when the mine caved in on Tuesday, July 21, trapping several miners underground.
Survivors Rescued, Search Continues
Don Sami Live learnt that several survivors were rescued and rushed to nearby medical facilities for emergency treatment. Rescue operations are ongoing to reach any remaining people trapped underneath the mine. The cause of the collapse remains unclear as authorities launch investigations into the incident.
The bodies of the five victims were taken to Lolgorian Sub-County Hospital mortuary, where they await post-mortem examinations, formal identification, and release to their families for burial. Security officers have since cordoned off the scene to prevent further accidents as rescue and recovery operations continue.
Reports reaching our desks further indicate that the specialised rescue team sent to the scene has deployed advanced underground surveillance cameras and other technical equipment considered essential for the mission's success.
This is not an isolated incident. On February 12, two miners aged 27 and 25 died after an underground tunnel at an abandoned mining site collapsed and trapped them in the same area.
Government Moves on Mining Safety Regulations
Following a series of mining accidents, the Ministry of Mining, Blue Economy and Maritime Affairs launched nationwide consultations on the draft Mine Health, Safety and Environment Regulations to replace the repealed Mining Act (Cap. 306). The proposed regulations seek to strengthen safety standards by requiring rigorous machinery inspections, adequate underground ventilation, and stricter health and safety measures.
The draft rules also require every mining operation to have a qualified Mine Manager holding a degree in mining engineering, civil engineering, or geology, while making personal protective equipment mandatory for all workers.
Separately, Mining Cabinet Secretary Hassan Joho unveiled the Explosives Bill, 2026, which proposes the establishment of a Commercial Explosives and Inspections Directorate to curb illegal mining.
The ministry also plans to map illegal mining sites and register artisanal miners, who account for about 80 per cent of Kenya's mining sector.