Mining and Blue Economy Cabinet Secretary Hassan Joho has reaffirmed the government’s commitment to supporting small-scale miners in Nyanza and throughout the country.
This initiative is a key part of a broader plan to drive economic growth through the mining sector.
During a homecoming event for Treasury Cabinet Secretary John Mbadi in Suba, Homabay County, Joho issued a stern warning against the harassment of small-scale miners, promising decisive action against any officials involved.
“I will take firm actions on anybody harassing small-scale miners in this region. We have put enough strategies in place to ensure that they are all protected,” he stated.
READ: Ruto to Launch Key Projects in Nyanza Region
Kenya, rich in mineral deposits, is a resource the government is eager to harness for additional revenue generation.
Joho underscored the government’s commitment to cracking down on illegal mining and the unauthorized exportation of minerals, which has become a growing concern.
He pointed out that the smuggling of unprocessed minerals is costing Kenya billions of shillings in lost revenue, funds that could be directed towards national development.
To combat this issue, the government plans to deploy mining officers at key points to prevent the illegal smuggling of minerals.
Earlier, Joho met with mining leaders from the Nyanza region to discuss the enforcement of these new directives, stressing the need for fair enforcement of existing laws across the sector.
In addition, Joho reassured stakeholders that royalty payments in the mining sector would be expedited in line with the law, further strengthening efforts to support and regulate the industry.
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