Kwale county: Communities affected by mining activities in Kwale County are calling for stronger representation, equitable access to post-mining benefits, and the productive use of rehabilitated land as Base Titanium prepares to wind up its operations.
According to Kenya News Agency, residents from Fingirika, Nguluku, and Mchanga Mweupe villages made the appeals during a community sensitization meeting facilitated by the Grassroots Organization, which focused on post-mining land rehabilitation and the recommendations contained in the government’s advisory report on future land use.
Speaking during the meeting, Fingirika village chairperson Saudi Bakari Mwanguruwe emphasized the importance of organizing to protect their rights and interests. Residents should not wait until investors leave before voicing concerns about unfulfilled promises.
Mwanguruwe highlighted the need for prioritizing communities that bore the burden of mining activities in benefiting from remaining infrastructure and resources, especially water facilities. He also advocated for using reclaimed land for commercial agriculture to enhance food security and household incomes.
Residents displaced by mining activities shared their experiences and hopes for the future. Bahati Mwanzije from Mchanga Mweupe village noted that the sensitization sessions clarified previously misunderstood issues, and Ibrahim Saidi Bagule described the awareness sessions as enlightening. Bagule acknowledged that while the project brought opportunities, it also posed challenges such as wildlife destroying crops.
Bakari Mwambuta of Nguluku village expressed concerns about displacement and inadequate compensation, emphasizing the need for the land to benefit future generations. Grassroots Organization representative Faki Omar explained that the initiative seeks to empower communities to actively participate in decisions concerning post-mining land use, aiming to create a social movement and establish a trust for future negotiations.
The mobilization process, which began earlier this year, is expected to culminate in the formation and registration of a community trust by August. Residents are hopeful that the end of mining operations will mark a new chapter characterized by food security, inclusive development, and social justice for communities living alongside one of Kenya’s largest mineral extraction projects.
