By Monica Nashon
Mining stakeholders have welcomed the government’s move to review mining laws and policies, saying the proposed changes will improve safety, strengthen governance and make Kenya more attractive to investors.
Principal State Counsel Patricia Mabil said the State Department for Mining is currently conducting public participation on three key documents ahead of their implementation.
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“We are exercising our constitutional mandate. Today, we have three documents: the Explosives Bill, the review of the Mining and Minerals Policy, and the Mine Health and Safety Regulations,” she said.
Mabil explained that the Explosives Bill is intended to replace legislation enacted in 1931, while the Mining and Minerals Policy is being reviewed after ten years to reflect changes and emerging trends in the sector.
She added that the Mine Health and Safety Regulations are aimed at enhancing the safety of workers and communities involved in mining activities.
Dr Julie Oseko, Vice-Chairperson of the National Land Commission and a member of the Mineral Rights Board, said public participation is a critical component in the development of effective mining laws and regulations.
“We are here to listen to the public as the proposed regulations and bills are being discussed,” she said.
She added that the Mineral Rights Board remains committed to ensuring Kenya creates a conducive environment for mining investment while promoting responsible resource management.
Nyamira County Mining Committee Chairperson Robin Achoki said the newly established county committee is keen to understand the proposed laws and its role in implementing them.
“Today, we want to learn and appreciate what the proposals entail. This is the first time the County Mining Committee has been established, so we have a lot to learn and put into practice,” Achoki said.
