By Moses Njagih and Rawlings Otieno
Kenya: Nyatike MP Omondi Anyanga has urged Mining Cabinet secretary Najib Balala not to relent in his fight to streamline the industry.
Anyanga told Balala to soldier on and seal all loopholes that have been exploited by mining companies.
The MP said the Government must implement reforms in the industry, adding that only such measures would ensure that Kenyans reap from minerals.
He noted a clique of opportunists is exploiting the minerals.
The legislator, in whose constituency locals have been undertaking mining, urged Balala to set up a team to vet those who will tender for new licences, claiming that in the past, there has been collusion between senior officers at the department of mining and prospective miners, making only a few cartels benefit from minerals.
Corruption
“Artisans working in mine fields have never benefitted from minerals. Unless regulations as those being introduced by the minister are put in place, then this sector will continue to enrich a few people,” said Anyanga, who added Balala should press on despite resistance “being put by those who have benefitted most from corruption in the sector”.
