Gold Mining Proposal Presented to Kajo Keji Chiefs

(KAJO KEJI COUNTY) – A proposed gold mining investment in the Nyamini area has been presented to community stakeholders for open dialogue, as Kajo Keji County authorities in Central Equatoria State push for transparency before any decision is made.

The Commissioner of Kajo Keji County, Hon. Wani Jackson Mule, convened a community engagement and consultative meeting with key stakeholders on 1 July 2026.

The meeting officially introduced a gold mining company that has expressed interest in exploring and investing in gold mining activities in the Nyamini area.

The consultative forum brought together landlords, traditional chiefs from all five Payams of Kajo Keji County, religious leaders, local government officials, youth and women representatives and other community stakeholders, including civil society.

The gathering was held to discuss the proposed investment and provide an opportunity for open dialogue before any decisions are made.

In his remarks, Hon. Wani said the meeting was intended to promote transparency, accountability and inclusive participation in matters concerning the county’s natural resources.

He reaffirmed the county government’s commitment to ensuring that local communities remain at the centre of any investment process and that their views are fully considered.

The managing director of the prospective gold mining company, Reng Thon Reng, presented the company’s intentions.

He outlined their interest in conducting lawful exploration and potential mining activities while pledging to comply with the laws of the Republic of South Sudan, protect the environment and work closely with local communities.

Speaking on behalf of the traditional leadership, the landlords and chiefs from all five Payams welcomed the company’s interest in investing in Kajo Keji County.

They however stressed the importance of a transparent, fair and accountable process that safeguards community land rights, protects the environment and ensures that local residents benefit through employment opportunities, social services and community development initiatives.

The meeting was also attended by bishops representing the Liwolo Diocese and the First Baptist Church. They called for honesty, peace, unity and responsible stewardship of the county’s natural resources.

The bishops encouraged all parties to uphold dialogue, mutual respect and the common good throughout the consultation process.

The consultative meeting concluded with a shared commitment among all stakeholders to continue engaging through open and inclusive dialogue as discussions on the proposed gold mining project progress.

The community engagement follows recent public concern over mining activities in Nyamini. A report from the County Commissioner of Kajo Keji stated that allegations surrounding mining activities in the area have generated worry among residents, community leaders, government authorities and other stakeholders.

The Commissioner noted that while these reports continue to attract public attention, it is important that the issue is approached with objectivity, transparency and respect for the rule of law. He stated that allegations should be thoroughly investigated before conclusions are drawn, as misinformation or speculation can easily undermine public confidence and social harmony.

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

However, he said these benefits can only be realised when mining activities are conducted legally, responsibly and with the full participation of the affected communities.

Where mining is undertaken outside the legal framework, it often results in environmental degradation, insecurity, conflicts over land ownership, loss of public revenue and violations of community rights.

To effectively address the alleged mining activities in Nyamini, the Commissioner recommended that the government establish an independent fact finding committee.

The proposed committee would comprise representatives from the national and state governments, county authorities, traditional leaders, environmental experts, civil society organisations and security agencies.

Such a committee would verify whether mining activities are taking place, determine whether the operators possess the required licences, assess compliance with environmental and social regulations and make recommendations based on evidence.