Mandera Governor Ali Roba has banned all quarrying activities in the county.
Speaking on Thursday during Jamhuri Day celebrations in Mandera, Roba said time has come for the vice to be dealt with for the sake of future generations.
He noted that the harsh climatic condition of the area arises from the misuse of resources through acts such as quarrying and deforestation.
“All over the world today, environmental problems continue to attract enormous attention and public concern. Environmental issues must be fully incorporated in our development efforts and policy-making,” he said.
The announcement came as a surprise to most residents since the governor has been known to defend the practice before.
“We must minimise the impacts of exploration and exploitation of stones, gravel, and sand in our quarries,” he added.
The governor lamented that the beauty of the hills and rivers in the region is no longer visible because of the actions of the residents.
He warned individuals involved in such acts such as sand harvesting to desist from the same with immediate effect, or face the full force of the law.