Illegal Gold Mining Under Scrutiny as Yala River Pollution Sparks Crackdown - August 2026

An intensified crackdown has been launched in Kenya following severe pollution of the Yala River, allegedly caused by illegal gold mining operations. Residents of Masinga are raising concerns over severe pollution in the Tana River, directly linking it to a sharp decline in fish stocks. Kenya is on high alert as the meteorological department warns of the impending El Niño phenomenon, raising concerns about potential floods and displacements. Residents of various villages in Busia County are urged to protect electricity infrastructure from theft amid rising incidents of cable and equipment theft.