Kitui County Implements Bylaw to Protect Environment and Regulate Sand Harvesting

KITUI, Kenya — Kitui Governor Dr. Julius Malombe has officially signed the Kitui County River Basins Sand Utilization and Conservation Bill 2023 into law, marking a major stride towards safeguarding river basins and the environment from the detrimental impacts of unregulated sand harvesting. The ceremony, held in Kitui town, highlighted the governor’s concern over the environmental degradation and the havoc wreaked by indiscriminate sand mining activities.

According to Kenya News Agency, illegal sand harvesting has led to numerous negative consequences, including receding water tables, drying rivers, unstable river banks, and unchecked floods, which have resulted in the destruction of property, farmlands, crops, and even loss of lives and societal disruptions. He pinpointed rivers such as Kivou, Tiva, Nzeeu, Mutendea, Mwitasyano, Tyaa, Nguutani, Enziu, and Mwania as among those severely affected.

The governor underscored that the demand for sand from Kitui County has surged, driven by its proximity to large cities, urban centers, the high quality of local sand, and excellent road network connectivity. He noted that the newly enacted legislation is in line with the constitutional mandates outlined in Articles 69 and 70, emphasizing the importance of individual and collective responsibilities towards environmental conservation.

Dr. Malombe lamented the previous lack of a legislative framework, which led to resource-based conflicts, environmental destruction, socio-economic disruptions, and increased poverty. The Kitui County River Basins Sand Utilization and Conservation Bill 2023 aims to address these issues, reflecting the governor’s commitment to environmental protection and conservation as promised in his manifesto.

Kitui Central Sub County Commissioner (DCC) Dorcus Rono expressed her support for the new bill, affirming that the national government, through the office of the County Commissioner, will collaborate with the county government to ensure strict enforcement of the law. She highlighted the extensive damage caused by unregulated sand harvesting and the significant costs incurred by both governments in mitigating these impacts.

The enactment of the bill was also praised by County Assembly Speaker Kinengo Katisya, who commended the collaborative efforts of the people of Kitui, the County Assembly, and the executive in formulating the legislation. He lauded the Members of the County Assembly (MCAs) for putting the interests of the community first and contributing to the development of a sustainable and environmentally conscious Kitui County.

The Kitui County River Basins Sand Utilization and Conservation Bill 2023 represents a critical measure in promoting the responsible use of natural resources, preserving ecosystem balance, and enhancing the quality of life for the residents of Kitui County.