GOLD MINING INVESTOR TOURS PROPOSED REFINERY CONSTRUCTION SITE

Kakamega County Governor H.E FCPA Wycliffe Ambetsa Oparanya has reiterated the need for setting up a gold processing plant in Ikolomani Sub-County to economically empower locals especially the artisinal miners from the Western region. The mine, if established, will serve miners from as far as Migori, Siaya and Kisii who engage in artisinal mining.

He was speaking at Lidambidza, Thursday afternoon, in the company of Devolution CS Hon Eugene Wamalwa, Bungoma County Governor H.E Wycliffe Wangamati, leaders from both levels of Government and hundreds of residents of Ikolomani Sub-County.

A prospective gold mining investor Bai Yuehwa, who was also present, has expressed interest in constructing the gold refinery.

“The County Government of Kakamega has already purchased 10 acres of land for establishment of the gold processing factory to support economic activities of our people from this region,” he said.

The Governor assured that the refinery will create massive employment opportunities for the residents and welcomed other gold miners interested in investing in the county to present their proposals to relevant authorities.

The National Government through the Ministry of Mining has already provided Shs50 million in support of the project.

Mr Bai assured the locals that if given the opportunity, he will ensure they benefit from a majority of the jobs.

Also present were; area MCA Hon Benson Mulinya, CECMs Hon Robert Makhanu (Lands & Ag. Water and Environment), Dr Collins Matemba (Health Services) and Mr Geoffrey Omulayi (Roads, Public Works and Energy), Chief Officers Mr Palapala Muteshi (Environment & Natural Resources) and Eng. Mr Joseck Maloba (Water), Ikolomani Sub-County Administrator Mr Protus Mwairumba with his Ward Administrators and CAAs, among other leaders.