March 19, 2024

Government to Renew Mining License in Kwale

Mining Principal Secretary Kirimi Kaberia addressing the media in Kwale County. Image: KAHONZI KALIWA

By KAHONZI KALIWA

Email: thecoastnewspaper@gmail.com

Base Titanium, an Australian owned mining company is yet to be licensed for the third phase mining processes, Principal Secretary Incharge of Mining Kirimi Kaberia revealed Friday.

The PS was on an official tour of the site.

Addressing the media after the launch of a food distribution exercise by the company at Magaoni Secondary school said the government is in its final stage of the licensing process.

He further says the government has also commenced discussions on how royalties amounting to sh2billion will be distributed.

“We are aware that it has taken a longtime for the ministry to respond. We are however finalizing the process very soon. We do not want to see mining laws being violated,” said Kaberia.

“70 percent of the royalties will be directed to the national government, 20 percent county government and 10 percent to the community,” noted the PS 

Kaberia revealed that plans to launch the community development agreement committees (CDA) are underway. 

“We are expecting the cabinet secretary for mining to come and launch the committees and once the funds are released. We shall right away start implementing the proposed projects by the community, “said the PS.

On his part, the Base Titanium community projects manager Pius Kassim said the third phase will be completed by 2024 should the government issue the company licence in time.

Base Titanium Community projects manager Pius Kassim.Image: KAHONZI KALIWA

He says ” We are expecting the third phase to last for only 24 months if the government will issue the license on time ,” Said Mr. Kassim. 

Kassim said mining activities is set to take place in Mafisini village, Msambweni sub county where 95 families will be relocated. 

“We carried out an exploration exercise in more than 20 villages. We however managed to trace one village (Mafisini) rich in mineral deposits,” Kassim noted.

Over 3000 households benefited from the food distribution exercise donated by the mining company.

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