This archive report was first published on 9 June 2020.
On June 9, 2020, residents in Kisii's Nyamonema area, bordering Bobasi and Bonchari constituencies, renewed their calls for the regulation of stone quarries in the area.
The area has been plagued by quarry blasts, which have left a trail of destruction, perforating roofs on most houses nearby.
Residents, including Jared Nyachio, have accused local government officials of siding with quarry owners to exploit the poor.
Recent blasts on Monday tore iron roofs of at least five houses, causing significant damage and disruption to daily life.
The shocks caused by the blasts have also affected livelihoods, with dairy cow owners reporting a decline in milk production and poultry farmers observing a decrease in egg-laying.
Residents have expressed their concerns and frustrations, with some calling for government intervention to address the issue.
As one resident, Moraa Ratemo, a 70-year-old resident, said, "I can't sleep at night, the blasts have poisoned my mind. I plead with the government to help us."
