Kitui Woman Representative Dr. Irene Kasalu has strongly condemned illegal sand harvesting, describing it as a growing source of pain, bloodshed, and environmental destruction in Kitui County. She spoke during a condolence visit to the family of the late Mwendwa Maluki of Kaunguni village in Nyanyaa/Katitika, Endui Location, Waita Ward, Mwingi Central Constituency, where she decried the rising violence linked to sand cartels operating along local rivers.
Dr. Irene Kasalu said Maluki lost his life while bravely defending women from violent intruders allegedly connected to illegal sand harvesting activities. She termed his death tragic and unacceptable, noting with concern that those responsible for such acts continue to roam free. The Woman Representative said the continued failure to arrest and prosecute suspects has fueled impunity, vowing to pursue justice until all those behind the killing and related violence are held accountable.
Dr. Kasalu warned that massive and unregulated sand harvesting has devastated rivers across Kitui County, leading to severe environmental degradation and threatening water sources, farming activities, and livelihoods. She cautioned that without urgent intervention, many rivers in the county risk irreversible damage.
The legislator also raised alarm over the involvement of children and young people in dangerous sand harvesting activities. She stressed that children belong in schools and training institutions, not in risky and illegal work that exposes them to violence and death.
According to Dr. Kasalu, the exploitation of youth by sand cartels is robbing the county of a productive future generation.
Looking ahead, Dr. Kasalu pledged that come 2027, the long-standing sand harvesting menace in Kitui County will be decisively addressed. She promised to champion strict regulations agreed upon by communities, enhance security in affected areas, and restore order, dignity, and environmental protection. She concluded by calling for unity in safeguarding community resources and prayed for the late Mwendwa Maluki’s soul to rest in eternal peace.
