MPs initiate push to reopen Hillo gold mines after being declared dangerous
By Lutta Njomo, November 30, 2025Members of Parliament have initiated a push to reopen the Hillo gold mine site in Marsabit County, which was declared as dangerous and disturbed.
The declaration of the gold mine as dangerous was first made on September 3, 2024, before it was extended in October 2024.
The Hillo gold mine sites include Hillo Gorgora, Hillo Orofa, Hillo Walkite, Hillo Tanzania, Hillo Irress Abamartille, Hillo Gootu, Hillo Tessum Qalicha, Hillo Karray, Hillo Hudda, Hillo Qoranjido, Hillo Irress Shindia, Hillo Rabaalee, and Hillo Godde Haroressa.
MPs latest efforts
On Saturday, November 29, 2025, the Administration and Internal Security Committee conducted an extensive fact-finding visit to the Hillo gold mines.
Led by the committee’s vice chairperson, Dido Rasso, the delegation assessed the area, which has remained closed to public access due to persistent security concerns.
In a statement shared by the Parliament of Kenya, the police officers stationed at the site requested the establishment of an additional camp and two police stations to strengthen security operations.
Committee’s observation
“In its preliminary observations, the Committee noted a broad consensus among local leaders, residents, and security officers that the mine should be reopened to the public, provided adequate safety measures are put in place,” the statement read in part.
The committee recommended that the area MP convenes a committee of regional elders to sustain continuous dialogue, while the OCPD outlines immediate security measures required for the mine’s safe reopening.
It further urged the Ministry of Interior and the Ministry of Mining to jointly determine the administrative, regulatory and operational steps necessary for reopening the site.
“Additionally, the ACC and DCC were tasked with strengthening communication to ensure the community clearly understands the dos and don’ts surrounding mining activities and security protocols,” the statement added.