Residents of Moyale are calling on the government to expedite the reopening of the Hillo gold mine, citing severe economic hardships resulting from its prolonged closure.
During a meeting with a delegation from the National Assembly’s Administration and Internal Security Committee led by Vice Chairperson Dido Rasso local residents expressed deep concern over the deteriorating state of the local economy. They said the mine had long been the community’s primary source of income and urged authorities to hasten efforts to resume operations.
Speaking at the forum, Abdikadir Waqo appealed for artisanal miners to be licensed, arguing that the mine’s closure had left many families grappling with hunger. He also proposed the establishment of a police station in the area to enhance security for both miners and the surrounding community.
Residents further accused the company operating at the site, of failing to conduct proper public participation before commencing activities. They said the lack of consultation had left locals uninformed and vulnerable as investors took control of the area.
“We don’t want investors to come and suffocate and inconvenience our artisanal miners. We want honest public participation on this matter,” said one of the elders.
ALSO READ:
Govt directs investigations into KUSCCO housing projects over alleged corruption
Rashid, Chairperson of the Marsabit Artisanal Mining Cooperative Union, echoed these concerns, noting that reopening the mine would uplift livelihoods, stimulate economic growth, and generate substantial national revenue.
Earlier, the Committee met with regional security officials led by Assistant County Commissioner Jimmy Ochoka. He reported that officers assigned to the Hillo mine had maintained safety and order but noted that some residents continued to sneak into the site to mine illegally, leading to fatal incidents. Ochoka underscored the need for regulated and safe mining practices.
Area MP Prof. Guyo Wako Jaldessa emphasized that gold is a natural resource that must be safeguarded. He insisted that the mineral remains a vital source of trade for the community and maintained that there were no security concerns warranting the mine’s continued closure.
Following their engagement with residents, the Committee is expected to visit the Hillo gold mine to assess the situation firsthand.
By Obegi Malack
Get more stories from our website: Sacco Review.
For comments and clarifications, write to: Saccoreview@
Kindly follow us via our social media pages on Facebook: Sacco Review Newspaper for timely updates
Stay ahead of the pack! Grab the latest Sacco Review newspaper!
