H.E Governor Mohamud Ali, EGH, PS Elijah Mwangi, alongside The Principal Secretary for the State Department of Mining, led an impactful engagement with local communities in Moyale Sub-County to ensure their active involvement in the development of the Hillo mines in the Dabel area. The meeting served as a platform for discussions focused on the future of the Hillo mines, addressing both the potential opportunities and challenges associated with mining activities in the region.
The meeting provided a platform for discussions centered on the future of the Hillo mines, with a focus on both the potential opportunities and challenges associated with mining activities in the region.
The communities that participated in this important dialogue included a diverse group of communities such as the Borana, Gabra, Garri, Burji, Sakuye, and Konna communities, as well as representatives from Maendeleo ya Wanawake and local youths. These communities are directly impacted by the mining operations, making their input crucial in shaping the future of the mines and ensuring that the development is aligned with their interests and needs.
The key objective of this engagement was to listen to the local voices and to discuss how the Hillo mines can serve as a catalyst for regional development. While mining offers vast potential for economic growth, it also brings forth a range of challenges that need to be carefully addressed. These include environmental sustainability, equitable distribution of benefits, job creation, and the preservation of cultural values. The discussions sought to balance these aspects, ensuring that the community remains at the heart of decision-making processes.
A major component of the engagement is the critical role played by the Department of Water, Environment, and Natural Resource Management. This department is instrumental in addressing environmental concerns that arise from mining activities. As mining projects often have a direct impact on the local ecosystem, including water resources and land use, the department's involvement will be pivotal in ensuring that sustainable practices are incorporated into the mining operations. The department will be responsible for setting guidelines, monitoring environmental compliance, and fostering collaboration with other stakeholders to minimize any adverse effects on the environment.
In terms of broader community development, this engagement is also focused on exploring opportunities that extend beyond mining. Through collaborations with other government agencies and community stakeholders, the aim is to create a sustainable ecosystem that benefits all. This includes fostering innovation, supporting entrepreneurship, enhancing education, and improving infrastructure in the region.
The visit by PS Elijah Mwangi and Governor Mohamud Ali underscores the importance of building strong partnerships with local communities to drive inclusive development. By working together, the government, local communities, and other stakeholders can unlock the potential of the Hillo mines while ensuring that growth is sustainable and that the local people benefit in a meaningful way.
This engagement marks a crucial step towards a future where the mining sector contributes to regional prosperity while being mindful of the environmental and social responsibilities it carries. Through continued dialogue and collaboration, the hope is to create a framework that not only supports mining growth but also strengthens the overall well-being of the communities in Moyale and beyond.