“Mining firm faces safety, permit queries”

The national environment watchdog has ordered the closure of a gold extraction plant in Bondo. The National Environment Management Authority (Nema) ordered the closure of the plant in Dago village following claims it was discharging deadly chemicals into water sources. The gold prospecting company has been on the spot following livestock deaths suspected to be caused by industrial waste from its factory. Reports indicate that up to 46 goats and sheep have died since the beginning of the year from consuming contaminated water, with the most recent deaths reported two weeks ago.

Residents also complained that they were not consulted before the plant was set up in the area three years ago. “The company and the local administration did not involve us in the project,” said Raphael Nyunja, adding that the firm did not offer adequate compensation for dead livestock. He claimed that the firm paid only Sh7,000 for the five goats he lost. A blame game has also erupted between local administrators and Nema officials regarding the company’s licensing. While Nema says it has not licensed any such facility in the county, area chief says the firm was authorised to operate. The Mining Act 2016 requires proof of submission and approval of an environmental and social impact assessment report as well as an environmental management plan to Nema before licensing can be done.