KAPENGURIA: West Pokot County Commissioner Abdullahi Khalif has urged investors involved in mineral exploration within the county to strictly adhere to the Mining Act’s regulations. Speaking during the Mashujaa Day celebrations at Makutano Primary School, Khalif expressed concerns about the indiscriminate extraction practices of gold miners, which pose a threat to environmental sustainability in the region.
According to Kenya News Agency, Khalif highlighted the county’s richness in gold deposits, which has attracted investors who allegedly disregard the welfare of the local community and engage in tax evasion. Khalif emphasized the necessity for investors to comply with the Mining Act and indicated plans to collaborate with the county government to ensure existing legislations are enforced to safeguard the local population’s interests. He criticized the investors for neglecting their obligation to contribute to community welfare through Community Social Responsibility (CSR) initiatives.
Khalif warned that t
he continued disregard for the law could deprive future generations of economic benefits. He urged investors to support community development projects, such as building schools, health centers, and water supply systems, as part of their CSR commitments.
West Pokot County, often referred to as the “Home of Hidden Treasures,” boasts significant mineral resources, including gold and limestone, which have recently attracted numerous investors. Khalif also commended local security agencies for their efforts in reducing crime and banditry, resulting in an unprecedented period of calm in the county over the past six months.
The Commissioner noted that areas once notorious for banditry, such as Kapuchen and Cheptulel, have witnessed improved security, facilitating development and fostering peace among border communities. Khalif assured that areas with security challenges would be prioritized for future National Police Reservists (NPR) deployments. He announced plans to reopen schools closed due to insecurity by Jan
uary next year, with adequate security measures in place, including the establishment of a police post at Ombolion.
On the Affordable Housing Programme (AHP), Khalif expressed dissatisfaction with the county’s progress compared to other regions. He urged residents occupying sites earmarked for affordable housing units to vacate, warning that government action would be taken to address delays in the program’s implementation. Khalif received praise from various speakers for his role in enhancing security within the county.
