Naema Celestine 
Felix Wanjala
Residents of hambo village, Musikoma ward, Kanduyi constituency, Bungoma County, are living in fear due to ongoing stone quarrying activities in the area.
They claim that the activities are being led by Cosmas Barasa, a local politician.
Some residents have estimated the damage after stones blasted and landed in their homesteads. One local recounts how his tuk-tuk, which he relies on for his livelihood, was struck by the stones.
In addition, the resident has called on the National Environmental Management Authority (NEMA) to intervene to avert further harm.
A mother is concerned about the health and safety of her children, especially the young ones, who might be affected by the cold due to the holes in her roof, which were caused by the stones.
However, some residents are warning that if the situation is not controlled soon, they could face significant damage during the rainy season, as their homes are already in poor condition.
They claim that despite reporting the issue to the relevant security units, they have urged them to respond quickly to prevent further harm.
The quarrying activity has also disrupted electricity, with cables believed to be carrying high voltage scattered on the ground, posing a danger to passersby.
They have blamed the local security officers, including the ten village elders and the area chief, for failing to inform the villagers about the ongoing quarrying activities.
This is the chair that the woman who was injured by the stones was using; she says she was only a few meters away from the site where the stone quarrying was taking place.
She states that she was taken to a hospital in Bungoma town by Red Cross volunteers and claims that she herself paid for the medical expenses.
She has called on the Ministry of Environment in Bungoma County and NEMA to intervene to ensure that the affected residents are compensated.
The woman also recounts how she narrowly escaped injury when stones hit her roof.
Relevant authorities have been urged to intervene and provide guidance on how such activities can be conducted without endangering lives, property, and the well-being of residents.
