Chaos Erupts as Minister Joho’s Nandi Visit Faces Mining Disputes
“Some mining businesses have been exploiting us and ignoring the established regulations, while both the County and National Governments have abandoned us,” said a local resident.
The first visit of the newly appointed Minister of Mining, Blue Economy, and Maritime Affairs, Hassan Joho, to Nandi County turned chaotic after two rival groups involved in mining activities in the Karebe area disrupted official discussions.
Each group demanded an opportunity to present their grievances to the Minister, alleging that mining operations in the area were being conducted unlawfully, with some miners facing mistreatment.
“Some mining businesses have been exploiting us and ignoring the established regulations, while both the County and National Governments have abandoned us,” said a local resident.
These grievances arose following a mining dispute between two families, which escalated after a fatal explosion in the area last year that claimed three lives, with the victims’ families yet to receive compensation.
Albert Balala, the MCA for Chemase/Chemelil, added, “Politics has infiltrated the mining business, driving away investors despite the sector being a lifeline for many.”
However, Minister Joho emphasized the critical role of the mining sector in boosting the national economy through youth employment and settling government debts. “The nation’s economy will be strengthened through this sector, but politicians must stop interfering,” Joho stated, urging miners to comply with the law.
Security officers were forced to intervene to calm the unrest that broke out during the event. Joho noted that the government loses billions of shillings annually due to unethical mining companies operating in the country.
Cynthia Muge, the Nandi Women Representative, expressed her disappointment over the situation, stating, “We must ensure justice is served so that our community does not continue to be oppressed.”
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