Macalder residents fear for safety after ‘baruti’ found planted on historic bridge

The explosive material, a type of fireworks locally known as 'baruti' -- is often used in gold mining in the area. 

The historic bridge, built during the colonial times, is an important lifeline in Macalder area.  Macalder is known for its artisanal gold reserves, and is part of the rich Lake Victoria Goldfields.

According to residents, the incident could be linked to the unending feud over diminishing gold resources, specifically the rich silt or earth remains from which gold has already been extracted.

Locals say that people with deep pockets have joined the grind for the rich minerals – making it an unfair race for gold.

One resident told Wananchi Reporting that the 'baruti' found on the bridge was the exact same type miners often use to break rocks suspected to contain gold deposits.

“People here call them ‘baruti’. They are easily found in the shops around here, with a tiny piece costing very little money,” said John Otieno, a resident of Nyatike.

“We suspect that someone wanted to destroy the bridge so as to limit the purchase and movement of already utilised gold silt in the neighbouring areas. Gold silt has been a major cause of disagreements and fight between locals and visitors dealing in gold,” said Mama Jane, also a resident of Nyatike.

Mama Jane and other residents now want the historic bridge protected, and built to modern standards.

"If this bridge is destroyed today, then trade and general movement of people in this region will be affected," said Mama Jane.

Residents recently took to the streets to demonstrate over the issue, prodding the government to investigate the matter and take appropriate action.

“It worries us locals that someone took their time, dug a hole and proceeded to plant an explosive on the bridge. Police must investigate and take action,” said Otieno.

The 'barutis' are said to be a common tool of trade in and around the mines.  There use often requires a certain level of skill and licensing, as it can be dangerous if not done properly.  

Residents say that it is not uncommon to find miners fiddling with 'barutis' in the area, as it is very easy to obtain.

Although gold deposits in Macalder were discovered in 1904, it was not until 1930s that mining began in earnest, under the tutelage of British colonialists Mark Holder and Alderson.

Large scale operations would stop in 1966 after Kenya gained her independence. Although there is still active mining taking place, most of it is artisan, with miners using basic tools to mine the precious metal.