Fact Finding Team Proposed for Alleged Illegal Mining in Nyamini

(KAJO KEJI COUNTY) – Allegations of illegal mining in Nyamini must be met with a fact finding investigation, transparent community dialogue and strict adherence to the law, the Commissioner of Kajo Keji County has said.

Commissioner Wani Jackson Mule issued a statement addressing growing public concern over reported mining activities in the Nyamini area. He said the issue should be approached with objectivity, transparency and respect for the rule of law. He warned that misinformation or speculation could easily undermine public confidence and social harmony.

The Commissioner noted that mining has the potential to transform local economies by creating jobs, generating government revenue, improving infrastructure and attracting investment.

However, he said these benefits can only come when mining is done legally, responsibly and with the full participation of affected communities.

Where mining takes place outside the legal framework, he added, it often leads to environmental damage, insecurity, land conflicts, loss of public revenue and violations of community rights.

To address the allegations, the Commissioner proposed that the government set up an independent fact finding committee. The committee would include representatives from national and state governments, county authorities, traditional leaders, environmental experts, civil society organisations and security agencies.

Its tasks would be to confirm whether mining is taking place, check if operators hold the required licences, assess compliance with environmental and social rules and make recommendations based on evidence.

Commissioner Mule said community engagement must remain at the centre of any action. He said the people of Nyamini deserve to be informed about any proposed mining activities affecting their land and livelihoods.

He called for regular public consultations so that local residents understand the possible benefits and risks of mining projects and have the chance to express their views. Free, open and inclusive dialogue, he said, helps prevent misunderstandings and builds public trust.

Traditional authorities, landlords and community elders also have a critical role to play. As custodians of customary land, the Commissioner said they should work closely with government institutions to make sure land decisions are transparent and in the best interests of the community. Their involvement can help resolve disputes peacefully while protecting community rights and preserving social cohesion.

The Commissioner said environmental protection should be treated as a national priority. Before any mining project begins, he said, full environmental and social impact assessments should be carried out by qualified professionals.

These assessments should look at possible effects on water sources, forests, wildlife, farmland and public health. Mining companies should also be required to develop restoration plans to repair affected areas after mining stops.

Security agencies, he said, should strengthen monitoring and enforcement to prevent illegal mining and related criminal activity. Any individuals or companies found operating without the necessary legal permission should be dealt with according to the law. At the same time, law enforcement actions should respect human rights and avoid unnecessary confrontation with local communities.

Transparency and accountability are equally important, the Commissioner stated. Any agreements involving mineral exploration or extraction should be made public to remove suspicion and build confidence among citizens.

Local communities should know who has been licensed, the length of the licences, the expected benefits and how revenues will be managed. Public disclosure, he said, reduces chances for corruption and promotes responsible governance.

If commercially viable mineral resources are confirmed, the Commissioner said clear systems should be set up to make sure local communities benefit directly.

This may include jobs for local youth, investment in schools and health facilities, better roads, access to clean water and community development funds financed through mining revenues. He said sustainable development should remain the final goal of any mining project.

The Commissioner called on all sides, including government institutions, community leaders, investors, civil society organisations and residents, to work together in a spirit of cooperation rather than confrontation. He said constructive dialogue, factual investigations, environmental responsibility and strict respect for the law provide the best path toward resolving concerns over the alleged mining activities in Nyamini.

He concluded that Nyamini’s natural resources should become a source of development, peace and prosperity rather than conflict and division. By putting transparency, community participation, environmental care and accountable governance first, he said, authorities can ensure that any decisions on mining serve the long term interests of both the local population and the nation as a whole.