ASSEMBLY HOLDS PUBLIC PARTICIPATION ON GOLD PROCESSING BILL

Kakamega County Governor H.E Dr. FCPA Wycliffe Ambetsa Oparanya Wednesday joined Members of the National Assembly Committee on Environment and Natural Resources in his capacity as the Chairman Lake Region Economic Bloc (LREB) to listen to views from LREB stakeholders on the The Gold Processing Bill 2021.

In his remarks, the Governor said the Bill will be key in streamlining operations in the mining sector for the benefit of the prospectors and residents of Kakamega County and implored Members of the Assembly to fastrack passing it before they vacate office. The Bill also proposes the establishment of the Gold Processing Corporation to manage and regulate mining activities.

The country, the Governor explained, looses millions of shillings as revenue due to lack of regulations in the industry. Kakamega, Migori, Homabay, Siaya and Vihiga as well as Nandi counties under the Lake Region belt have gold deposits.

“Our neighbor Tanzania is effectively managing this industry due to her well laid down policies; this legal framework will be key in transforming the mining sector not just in Kakamega County but Kenya as a whole,” the Governor said.

National Assembly Environment Committee Vice Chairperson Hon. Paul Nzengu who chaired the session called on his colleagues at the August House to support the Bill and lauded the initiator and Ikolomani MP Hon. Shinali for his passion towards the initiative.

Kisii County MP Hon. Janet Ongera was also in attendance.