Residents of Lolgorian in Trans Mara South, Narok county, protested on Monday against an alleged deal to sell Kilimapesa Gold Mine land to a foreign investor. More than 3,000 people depend directly on the site for their livelihoods. They accuse leaders of secret dealings without community consent.
Residents of Lolgorian in Trans Mara South, Narok county, staged protests on Monday against an alleged deal to sell Kilimapesa Gold Mine land to a foreign investor. The mine, known for its rich gold deposits, has long been an economic hub, with many relying on artisanal mining, small-scale trading, and related activities for survival. Demonstrators fear the agreement could lead to their eviction and loss of livelihoods, accusing a former local leader of facilitating the takeover. Locals claim the deal was done without their knowledge or consent, igniting outrage among communities dependent on the area for decades. More than 3,000 people depend directly on the site for daily livelihoods, with the wider community benefiting from trade and services linked to gold mining. Residents note the area has reduced poverty, created youth employment, and improved education access in the ward. Prior to expanded mining, it faced high crime and economic hardship, both of which have declined. During protests, miners halted operations temporarily for meetings to oppose what they called attempts to uproot them. Speaking for the miners, leader Paulo Ole Mosinko gave an impassioned address rejecting foreign investor involvement and warning against displacement efforts. He criticised an unspecified committee for corruption, alleging it made land sale agreements in Nairobi without community consultation. Area MCA Michael Seme faced criticism over claims linking him to the deal. He denied the accusations, declined comment on claims against a former leader, and affirmed support for locals. “I am not afraid to express my views. The citizens have said they reject the foreign investor and they do not want to be under the committee of the past,” he said. Residents insist they will resist eviction attempts from Kilimapesa and continue demonstrations.
