"Coal mining plan could be revived under Ngilu, resistance expected"

Mining in Kitui may get a new lease of life under Governor Charity Ngilu’s leadership. Coal and limestone mining in the Mui Basin and Ngaaie respectively had stalled. Ngilu, in her speech after being sworn-in...promised to tap minerals to improve the county’s economy. “I promise to partner with the national government to ensure minerals are fully utilised for the benefit of residents,” she said.

Last month, then Mwingi Central MP Joe Mutambu said he tried to push for the coal mining project during his tenure, but both the national government and company awarded the contract were slow to act. He cast doubt on whether the project would be implemented given the international community’s stance on the negative environmental impact of coal mining. Residents are opposed to the project because of the uncertainty about compensation and where they will be relocated to.

On Saturday, Mui farmer Muthui Mang’ola said the project should be abandoned because it will interfere with livelihoods. “Apart from interfering with farming activities, we are not willing to leave the place where the graves of our parents and other beloved people are. It would be very painful to do so,” he said. Mang’ola continued, “Our soil is rich. We were told we will be relocated to Sosoma, which is insecure yet we are used to living peacefully.” Resident Mbithe Muthui said even though locals might be compensated, the amount paid might not be commensurate with the amount they get from farming.