Turkana, West Pokot mining disputes expose licensing gaps

The National Assembly Environment Committee has put the Ministry of Mining on the spot for licensing companies allegedly operating without environmental approvals, warning that uncontrolled mining is causing displacement, water shortages and pollution in several counties.

Appearing before the committee, Harry Kimtai, Principal Secretary, State Department for Mining, was taken to task over the continued licensing of mining firms despite stop orders from the National Environment Management Authority (NEMA).

The MPs accused the Ministry of ignoring the law and failing to protect the environment and local communities.

The committee session followed statements presented by legislators from Turkana, West Pokot and Kasipul.

Turkana South MP Ariko Namoit demanded accountability for licenses issued in Lami Nyeusi, Lorogon and Kalomwae villages and questioned why no action had been taken to form artisanal mining committees or refill deep trenches left by mining companies.

“The PS is not sincere in his response,” said Ariko, pointing to photos of environmental destruction. “Look at the photos I have provided to this Committee, these mining activities have brought serious destruction around Kainuk town, the use of cyanide chemicals is having serious effects in the area.”

Ariko also accused the State Department of falsely claiming to have organised small-scale miners into cooperatives and said local leaders were being sidelined.

MPs Lochakapong' and Moroto said the Ministry was downplaying the extent of mining, adding that activities on the ground clearly showed large-scale operations.

Committee members pressed the PS to clarify the role of the police in shielding illegal miners and demanded that mining benefit-sharing laws be enforced.

“Chair, enforcement is critical here. This goes in line with the Mining Act 2016. The damage is done to the people of Turkana South and Sigor. I request that the PS under Section 91 and 93 on simplified licensing or artisan mining permits... we want cooperatives formed to help the community establish small-scale miners,” said MP Joseph Emathe.

Msambweni MP Feisal Bader joined calls for coordination among the Ministry, NEMA, and security agencies.

Vice Chair Kamuren directed that the committee visit the affected regions and convene a meeting bringing together top officials from all responsible institutions.

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