Kenya is making significant progress in implementing six key tools and regional initiatives aimed at curbing the illegal exploitation of natural resources, according to Mining Principal Secretary Harry Kimtai.
The tools include the Regional Certification Mechanism, Harmonization of National Legislation, a Regional Mineral Flow Database, Formalization of the Artisanal and Small-Scale Mining Sector, the Extractive Industries Transparency Initiative, and a Whistleblower Mechanism.
Speaking at a meeting organized by the International Conference on the Great Lakes Region (ICGLR) Secretariat, PS Kimtai emphasized Kenya’s commitment to bolstering its legal and regulatory structures. He highlighted ongoing efforts to formalise the artisanal and small-scale mining sector as part of broader reforms.
“Illegal exploitation of natural resources has long been a driver of conflict, weakened governance, and hindered economic growth in the region,” Kimtai stated.
He noted that the six tools offer a comprehensive strategy to address these longstanding issues. “As a region, our collective goal must be to fully operationalize these tools, uphold their credibility, and enhance their effectiveness,” he said.
Kimtai reiterated Kenya’s dedication to aligning with international standards and building strong systems to monitor and trace mineral flows across the value chain.
He underscored the urgency of implementing the Regional Certification Mechanism, describing it as a cornerstone initiative crucial to enhancing transparency, traceability, and accountability in the country’s mineral industry.
“To this end, we intend to seek technical support from the ICGLR Secretariat when needed to ensure a smooth and timely rollout of these programs,” Kimtai added.
ICGLR Executive Secretary Ambassador Joao Samuel Caholo echoed the importance of these initiatives, pointing out that disputes over land and resources are key drivers of recurring conflicts in the Great Lakes Region.
“In 2010, regional heads of state gathered in Lusaka for an extraordinary summit and adopted a protocol to address mineral access challenges,” said Caholo.
He reported that the Regional Certification Mechanism has already been adopted by five member states: the Democratic Republic of Congo, Burundi, Rwanda, Uganda, and Tanzania. “We are now urging countries like the Central African Republic, the Republic of Congo, South Sudan, and Zambia to join. If they do, we expect to have nine participating nations by next year,” he added.
Amb. Caholo also stressed the importance of developing a regional mineral database to support traceability and transparent resource management. “Our revamped mineral database is now operational,” he noted, adding that implementation of this and the certification mechanism is progressing reasonably well among member states.
He concluded by highlighting ongoing efforts by the ICGLR Secretariat to support the formalization of artisanal and small-scale miners throughout the region.
