NAIROBI – Mining Cabinet Secretary (CS) Hassan Joho has reaffirmed the government’s commitment to transforming Kenya’s mining sector through improved governance, formalisation of artisanal and small-scale mining, environmental protection and enhanced economic opportunities.
Speaking while presiding over the Annual Mining Policy Brief and Stakeholder Forum, CS Joho officially launched the Artisanal Mining Committee Manual and the Environmental and Social Impact Assessment (ESIA) Guidelines for the Mining Sector.
The two policy documents are aimed at strengthening the regulation and management of artisanal and small-scale mining while promoting responsible, safe and environmentally sustainable mining practices.
Joho said the initiatives demonstrate the Ministry’s determination to formalise artisanal and small-scale mining, strengthen the capacity of miners, improve working conditions and expand access to markets.
He noted that formalisation would also ensure that artisanal and small-scale miners are fully integrated into mineral value chains, enabling them to benefit more directly from the country’s mineral resources.
The CS emphasised that the government is focused on moving the mining industry away from informal, fragmented and unsustainable practices towards a well-regulated, inclusive and environmentally responsible sector.
He said strengthening governance, promoting responsible mining and empowering small-scale miners would provide a foundation for a more competitive and sustainable mining industry.
Joho further underscored the importnce of positioning mining as a key driver of Kenya’s economic transformation, particularly through job creation, industrialisation and the growth of county economies.
He observed that a well-organised mining sector has the potential to improve livelihoods, create employment opportunities and deliver lasting benefits to communities and the country at large.
The launch of the two documents marks an important policy step towards improving institutional capacity, strengthening environmental and social safeguards and ensuring that mining activities contribute meaningfully to sustainable national development.
Mr Mohammed Amir Anwar, one of the stakeholders attending the Annual Mining Policy Brief, raised concerns over budgetary matters, calling on the panel to address key financial issues affecting the mining sector.
During the engagement, Mr Anwar highlighted the importance of adequate budgetary allocations to support the effective implementation of mining policies, strengthen sector operations and ensure sustainable growth.
He challenged the panel to provide clarity on how financial resources are allocated, managed and prioritised, particularly in addressing the needs and challenges facing stakeholders in the mining industry.
His concerns underscored the need for transparent budgeting, prudent financial management and meaningful stakeholder engagement in decisions concerning the sector’s development.
By Fred Azelwa.