Kipkelion East Member of Parliament Joseph Cherorot has lauded quarry workers in Kedowa for their resilience and contribution to the local economy, while calling for enhanced interventions to improve their welfare and working conditions.
Speaking during an empowerment forum at Kedowa Centre in Kedowa Kimugul Ward on Saturday, Cherorot who was accompanied by Senate Majority Leader Aaron Cheruiyot and other local leaders, said quarry workers play a critical role in supporting families and driving development through the supply of construction materials.
He noted that despite the sector’s contribution to the county’s construction industry, many workers continue to operate under difficult and hazardous conditions.
The legislator said there was need for deliberate collaboration between the national and county governments to formalize quarrying activities and ensure workers benefit from improved safety standards and fair returns.
Cherorot described the workers as a pillar of economic growth in the area, saying their daily labor continues to sustain many households.
“These workers wake up early every day and endure difficult conditions to earn a living and support their families. Their contribution to local development deserves recognition and practical support,” he said.
Senator Cheruiyot said the government will continue engaging stakeholders to create opportunities for quarry workers through organized cooperatives, market linkages and improved occupational safety measures.
He urged residents to remain united and focused on development initiatives aimed at improving livelihoods.
The forum brought together residents, quarry workers and local leaders who discussed ways of strengthening grassroots economic empowerment and addressing challenges facing workers in the sector.
For many residents of Kedowa, quarrying remains one of the few dependable sources of income.
Benard Kiprono, a quarry worker, said the work has enabled him to educate his children despite the physical demands and low earnings.
He said workers spend long hours manually breaking stones under harsh weather conditions with limited protective equipment.
“This work is what feeds our families but the conditions are very difficult. We need protective gear, better markets and support to improve our productivity,” he said.
Linet Chepkemoi, who works as a stone loader, said many women in the sector face health challenges due to constant exposure to dust and strenuous manual labor.
by Kipngeno Korir
