Kitui County Inducts Kanziku Community Mining Liaison Committee to Safeguard Local Interests
The County Ministry of Energy, Natural, and Mineral Resources has officially inducted the newly formed Kanziku Community Mining Liaison Committee in a two-day meeting held in Mutomo.
Led by Chief Officer Henry Nyamai, the induction aimed to equip committee members with knowledge on responsible mining practices, community rights, and the mineral wealth of Kanziku Ward.
The committee, elected through a smooth and transparent process, comprises seven members tasked with acting as a bridge between the community, government, and investors. Additionally, four professionals from Kanziku—a geologist, lawyer, social worker (PWD), and an environmentalist—have been co-opted to provide technical expertise and enhance community representation.
Speaking at the event, Chief Officer Henry Nyamai emphasized the committee’s critical role in safeguarding community land and mineral resources. He warned against uninformed land sales and assured members of the county government’s support in protecting local interests.
“Your role as liaison committee members is critical. You are the bridge between the government, investors, and the community. I urge you to be vigilant and ensure no one sells their land without understanding its true value. We will equip you with knowledge on key issues such as land valuation so that investors do not take advantage of you,” said CO Nyamai.
He further announced that the committee will be officially gazetted next week, reinforcing its legitimacy and authority in overseeing mining activities.
Newly elected committee chairperson, Mr. Vincent Mutambu, expressed gratitude to the County Government under H.E. Governor Dr. Julius Malombe for prioritizing the protection of Kitui’s mineral resources.
“We thank the county government for its dedication to ensuring that our mineral resources benefit the people of Kitui. As a committee, we promise to work in harmony, uphold transparency, and ensure that the people of Kanziku and the county at large are not shortchanged,” said Mr. Mutambu.
Kanziko MCA Kyalo Kimuli echoed CO Nyamai’s sentiments, raising concerns that nearly 75% of Kanziko’s land has already been acquired by investors, with many residents unknowingly signing away their rights. He urged the new liaison committee to take charge of educating the community and ensuring fair transactions moving forward.
The induction event was attended by other County Officers from the department, reinforcing the government’s commitment to responsible and community-driven mining practices in Kitui County.
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