Kapokor – 15th August, 2024 (Public Communications and Media Relations)
The County Government through its Department of Mineral Resources has conducted a community consent agreement forum regarding potential gypsum investment that could significantly benefit the Kapokor Community of Kalokol Ward, Turkana Central Sub-county.
The forum marked a crucial step in ensuring that investment in the region is both community-centered and sustainable. The proposed project involves the extraction of gypsum, a key mineral used in construction and manufacturing industries.
As Turkana County continues to attract interest from investors, this community consent process sets a precedent for future developments, ensuring that the local population benefits from the region’s rich natural resources.
The proposed gypsum investment in Turkana County represents a potential economic boost for the region, particularly for the artisanal miners. However, the success of this venture will depend on continued community engagement and a commitment to fair and sustainable practices.
In his remarks, Areman Elim the Deputy Director for Mineral resources emphasized the importance of community involvement in the decision-making process.
“This meeting is about ensuring that our community’s voice is heard and that we have a stake in the developments that affect our land and resources. We want to ensure that investments in our county bring tangible benefits to our people, particularly the artisanal miners who have been working hard under difficult conditions,” Elim stated.
He further outlined benefits for the artisanal miners through corporate social responsibility projects, including improved working conditions, fair wages, and access to better mining equipment, and solarizing health centers in the area.
Representative of Turbo investment Company, Mandela Bittok, assured the community of their commitment to ethical mining practices and upholding corporate social responsibility.
“We are not just here to extract resources; we are here to build a lasting partnership with the people of Turkana. Our goal is to create a win-win situation where the community prospers alongside the business,” he said.
Speaking on behalf of the Artisanal miners, Mr Korobe Lopili raised various concerns, including the environmental impact of gypsum mining and the need for transparency to ensure equity among the beneficiaries.
He also expressed the community’s cautious optimism, stating, “We welcome development, but it must be done in a way that respects our land and benefits everyone, not just a few.”
The department has assured the community that their concerns will be addressed before any final agreements are signed. A follow-up meeting will be scheduled to finalize the terms of the agreement and ensure that all stakeholders are on board.
The attended by county officials from mineral resources, legal affairs and land departments, community members; and representatives from the National Environment Management Authority, local community organisations, prospective investor and local administration.
