Miners in cooperatives to receive work permits

Business
By Benard Lusigi | Apr 21, 2024
Mining PS Elijah Mwangi (right) speaks after presiding over the inauguration of artisanal miners committees. [Benjamin Sakwa, Standard]

The government has announced plans to issue mining permits to artisanal miners operating within cooperatives as recommended by the newly established mining committees.

Speaking in Kakamega County after presiding over the inauguration of artisanal miners committees in eight counties, Mining Principal Secretary Elijah Mwangi emphasised that the move aims to formalise the sector, eliminate illegal mining, reduce accidents, and safeguard government revenue.

“We are activating the artisanal mining committees in every county to guide the regional mining directors regarding licensing,” stated Mwangi.

He highlighted the government’s commitment to improving the livelihoods of artisanal miners and targeting 10 per cent of royalties and one per cent of Gross Domestic Product (GDP).

“We are also focusing on value addition initiatives, identifying key mining activities in each region, and attracting investors to establish facilities to enhance local livelihoods,” Mwangi explained.

He further disclosed plans for the commissioning of a gold refinery in Ikolomani, Kakamega County.

Additionally, laboratories will be constructed in Kakamega and Kisumu to facilitate value addition.

The PS revealed the government had closed 1,200 artisanal mines nationwide due to non-compliance with regulations, urging operators to obtain permits for legal operation.

Mwangi urged communities in Kakamega, Siaya, and Vihiga to welcome investors for gold exploration, assuring them that the government would ensure fair distribution of benefits and adherence to regulations.

“We want investors to improve our people’s living standards. Communities should allow exploration activities, and when mining begins, permits will be awarded in collaboration with county governments and local leaders,” he said.

Kakamega County Artisanal Miners Committee Chairman Patrick Ligami hailed the move as a step towards regulating the sector and ensuring local benefits from mining activities.

Sabatia MP Clement Sloya emphasised the need for  equitable distribution of benefits from mining activities.

 

Share this story
Traders claim closure of liquor stores, bars near schools punitive
Bars and other alcoholic drinks outlets have pleaded with the State to find alternative solutions to shutting down businesses.
Adani fallout is a lesson on accountability and transparency fight
President William Ruto’s State of the Nation Address on Thursday provided an opportunity to align the public’s sentiments with his administration’s scorecard.
Treasury goes for UAE loan as IMF cautions of debt situation
The Abu Dhabi loan will be disbursed in tranches, ensuring compliance with borrowing limits set under IMF. Kenya is expected to access about Sh91 billion.
How talent development is shaping Kenya's tech future
This ‘talent war’ is a double-edged sword. While it opens up global opportunities, it presents local companies that seek to retain top talent within Kenya with challenges.
Street-style snappers reclaim the heart of Nairobi
The colourful streets are also teeming with teenage TikTokers, whose cameras capture their hypnotic routines to the bass beats of arbantone, a popular Kenyan music genre.
.
RECOMMENDED NEWS