Residents of Achich Beach in Homa Bay Town Sub-County have raised alarm over the rapid disappearance of their shoreline, blaming illegal sand mining for the destruction. 

The activity, carried out under the cover of darkness, is not only eroding the beach but also threatening livelihoods of the local community, which relies heavily on fishing and beach-related activities for survival.

According to Erick Otiende, Chairperson of the local Beach Management Unit (BMU), the sand harvesting has had devastating effects on the area’s ecosystem and economy. Fishermen are struggling to dock their boats safely as the shoreline shrinks, disrupting their ability to fish and provide for their families.

“Our beach is on the verge of vanishing,” Otiende said. “The illegal sand harvesting is destroying our boat landing sites and threatening our source of income.”

The beach, once a hub of activity and a vital part of the local economy, is now a shadow of what it once was. Residents say unknown individuals arrive at night with lorries, load them with sand, and leave before dawn. By the time the sun rises, more of the beach has been stripped away, leaving behind unstable shores and worried residents.

Lucy Adhiambo, a long-time resident, voiced her concerns, saying, “We see the lorries, but we don’t know who they belong to. They come at night, take the sand, and leave us to deal with the destruction. It’s heartbreaking to watch our beach disappear like this.”

For the people of Achich Beach, the shoreline is more than just a stretch of sand — it’s their lifeline. Fishing is the backbone of the community, and without a safe place to dock, store, and maintain their boats, many fear their way of life will be lost.

“If this continues, we will lose everything,” said another resident. “We need the government to protect our beach.”

The community is now pleading with both the national and county governments to intervene and put an end to the illegal mining.

They hope for increased security, stricter enforcement of environmental laws, and long-term measures to rehabilitate the damaged shoreline.