Did a goat herder's lucky $200 nugget spark a gold rush in western Kenya?

The discovery of larger quantities of gold in early August has significantly captured public attention.

As rumors circulated, Kiarie believes the reported finds, both in terms of number and size, were amplified. This exaggeration attracted a growing influx of individuals with minimal or no prior mining experience, all hoping to replicate the initial reported successes.

Following the initial surge, the number of prospectors has decreased to approximately 2,500, as some have abandoned their search.

While it's undeniable that some gold has been found in the region, uncertainty persists regarding the actual size of the underground deposit and its potential for commercial exploitation.

The deputy commissioner stated, "I can confirm that small-scale gold traders informed us they were receiving an average of about 100 people daily." However, it remains unconfirmed whether the discovered materials were indeed gold.

Reported individual finds range from modest amounts, worth a few hundred Kenyan shillings, to one significant discovery valued at approximately 78,000 shillings ($600).

The West Pokot county shares a border with Uganda, and the communities on both sides have long-established social and familial connections.

Mugisha Godfrey, an artisanal miner from Busia in eastern Uganda, traveled to Cheporor after a friend alerted him to the discovery.

He immediately embarked on his journey to the village, spending around 100,000 Ugandan shillings ($27) for travel expenses.

However, Godfrey notes that the living conditions in Cheporor are challenging.

"We sleep under the trees, and as soon as morning arrives, we resume our work. At times, we work both day and night," Godfrey shared with the BBC.

He has yet to find anything. Despite this, he remains undeterred.

"We cannot return unless we find something. We will only go back home once we have discovered what we are seeking," he asserted.