By John Kariuki
Principal Secretary for Mining, Elijah Mwangi, has reaffirmed the government’s commitment to eradicating criminal activities in the mining sector following a high-level meeting with Director of Public Prosecutions Renson Ingonga. The discussions, which brought together senior mining officials and representatives from the Office of the Director of Public Prosecutions (ODPP), focused on tackling illicit mining, enhancing compliance with existing laws, and eliminating mineral smuggling.
The meeting underscored the growing challenges facing the mining sector, including the illegal extraction of minerals, non-compliance with regulatory requirements, and cross-border smuggling. These activities have not only led to losses in government revenue but have also posed significant risks to sustainable resource management. To address these concerns, both institutions agreed on the urgent need to fast-track the prosecution of mining-related offenses, ensuring cases are concluded swiftly to serve as a deterrent to illegal operators.
PS Mwangi emphasized that the government will take a zero-tolerance approach to lawbreakers in the mining industry, calling for collaborative efforts between regulatory authorities, law enforcement agencies, and the judiciary to strengthen enforcement. He noted that illegal mining operations often exploit local communities, degrade the environment, and deprive the country of crucial revenue needed for national development.
“The mining sector is a key contributor to Kenya’s economy, and we cannot allow criminal elements to undermine its potential. By working closely with the ODPP, we will ensure that all illegal activities are dealt with decisively, and those responsible are brought to justice,” Mwangi stated.
On his part, DPP Renson Ingonga pledged continued support for the Ministry of Mining’s efforts to streamline compliance and enforce the law. He noted that his office is committed to strengthening the legal framework surrounding mining crimes, ensuring that investigations and prosecutions are conducted efficiently to curb impunity.
Moving forward, both agencies will collaborate on developing a comprehensive enforcement strategy that includes enhanced surveillance, targeted crackdowns on illegal mining hotspots, and public awareness campaigns to educate communities on the legal and economic implications of illicit mining. The initiative is expected to restore order and accountability in the sector, fostering a more transparent and investor-friendly mining industry.
As the government tightens regulatory oversight, stakeholders in the mining sector have been urged to adhere to the law, acquire the necessary licenses, and operate within ethical and environmental guidelines. This latest push marks a significant step toward transforming Kenya’s mining industry into a well-regulated and sustainable pillar of economic growth.
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