Charles Oduor By Javan Sajida
Kakamega, Kenya – October 21, 2026 | Artisanal miners in Kakamega face heightened risks of tuberculosis (TB) and HIV due to poor ventilation, dust exposure, overcrowded living conditions, and limited healthcare access. Stakeholders at the Diamond Rock Hotel training emphasized the urgent need for awareness, referral systems, and preventive measures to protect miners and surrounding communities.
Lubao FM continues to champion public health awareness and community empowerment. Today, our Editor Javan Sajida and Director of Operations Charles Oduor joined stakeholders at the Diamond Rock Hotel, Lurambi Constituency, for a training session on Infectious Diseases in Mining, organized by our partners, CABDA.
Health Risks in Artisanal Mining
Artisanal miners in Kakamega face heightened risks of tuberculosis (TB) and HIV infections due to:
- Prolonged exposure to mineral dust, which damages lungs and increases TB vulnerability.
- Overcrowded settlements around mining sites that accelerate disease transmission.
- Limited access to healthcare services, delaying diagnosis and treatment.
- Social and economic pressures that heighten HIV risks, especially among women miners.
- Teenage pregnancies facilitated by female minors working on the mines.
Stakeholder Deliberations
The training brought together health experts, community leaders, and media representatives to deliberate on practical solutions:
- Identification & Referral: Training community health promoters (CHPs) to screen miners and link them to county hospitals.
- Awareness Creation: Using radio talk shows, mentions, and social media campaigns to destigmatize TB/HIV and encourage testing.
- Preventive Measures: Advocating for protective gear, improved ventilation in mines, and regular health check-ups.
- Gender-Sensitive Approaches: Addressing the unique vulnerabilities of women miners by integrating sexual and reproductive health rights (SRHR) into awareness campaigns.
Examples of Best Practices
- Community Screening: CHPs conducting TB checks in Migori and Kakamega mines have reduced transmission rates.
- Protective Equipment: Distribution of masks and gumboots in swampy mining zones has prevented bilharzia and reduced TB risk.
- Media Awareness: Lubao FM’s campaigns continue to break stigma and encourage miners to seek treatment.
- Referral Systems: Strengthening linkages between mining communities and county hospitals ensures timely access to ART and TB treatment.
Lubao FM’s Commitment
Through our participation, Lubao FM reaffirms its dedication to responsible journalism, public education, and community empowerment. We remain committed to informing, educating, and empowering our audiences with knowledge that promotes healthier, safer, and more resilient communities.
Lubao FM — Informing, Educating and Empowering Our Community. #LubaoFM #CABDA #MiningSafety #PublicHealth #CommunityAwareness #AKCMO
