Migori County, located in southwestern Kenya, has long been recognized for its rich deposits of gold. Artisanal and small-scale gold mining (ASGM) activities play a vital role in the local economy, offering employment opportunities and a source of livelihood for thousands of residents. However, despite its economic significance, gold mining in Migori has historically faced challenges relating to environmental degradation, unsafe chemical use, and low recovery rates.
Today, the focus is shifting toward sustainable and responsible mining, with private companies, government bodies, and local communities working together to revolutionize gold extraction practices in the region.
The Challenge: Mercury and Environmental Risks
Traditional gold mining methods in Migori, like in many parts of sub-Saharan Africa, often involve the use of mercury to separate gold from ore. While effective in the short term, mercury use poses serious health and environmental risks:
- Toxic exposure to miners, especially women and children involved in gold processing.
- Contamination of water sources and agricultural land.
- Long-term damage to ecosystems and biodiversity.
The Shift to Safer, Greener Methods
In response to these challenges, national and county governments have introduced initiatives aimed at phasing out mercury use in favor of eco-friendly and more efficient chemical processes. International organizations such as UNEP and Minamata Convention have also advocated for sustainable practices in gold mining.
Reucher Africa Kenya Ltd: Driving Chemical Innovation in Mining
At the forefront of this transformation is Reucher Africa Kenya Limited, a trusted supplier of industrial and mining chemicals in Kenya. By providing mining operators in Migori with safe, high-performance alternatives to hazardous substances like mercury, Reucher is helping to usher in a new era of clean and efficient gold recovery.
Key Products Supporting Sustainable Mining:
- Activated Carbon: Essential for gold adsorption in the carbon-in-pulp (CIP) and carbon-in-leach (CIL) processes.
- Hydrated Lime (Calcium Hydroxide): Used in pH control to optimize the cyanidation process and minimize chemical waste.
- Sodium Cyanide (in controlled and safe systems): Enables higher recovery rates when used under regulated conditions.
- Nitric Acid & Sulphuric Acid: Applied in ore processing and refining with proper waste treatment systems.
- Titanium Dioxide: Utilized in certain mineral processing formulations.
Reucher ensures all products meet quality standards and provides technical guidance on proper handling, application, and environmental management.
A Future-Ready Mining Industry
The journey toward sustainable gold mining in Migori is still unfolding, but progress is evident. With increasing awareness, the integration of chemically safe solutions, and support from companies like Reucher Africa Kenya Ltd, there is hope for:
- Higher gold yields
- Healthier communities
- Environmental restoration
- Stronger local economies
Partner With Us
Reucher Africa Kenya Ltd is committed to supplying the mining sector with the tools, chemicals, and knowledge needed to thrive sustainably. If you’re a mining investor, cooperative, or community group in Migori or other gold-rich regions, we invite you to collaborate with us in building a more responsible future for Kenyan mining.
