Siaya Residents Demand Commitment from Mining Firm Over Ancestral Land

In a recent public participation forum held in Gem Ramula, Siaya County, local residents voiced their deep concerns about potential displacements due to mining activities planned by Shanta Gold mining company. Led by Colonel (rtd) Moses Adol, chairman of the Ramula Community Development Association, the residents are demanding written commitments from the mining firm that they will not be forced to leave their ancestral land. This article explores the community’s concerns, the implications of mining activities, and the roles of various stakeholders involved in this contentious issue.

The Context of Mining in Siaya

Mining activities in Kenya have been a double-edged sword, offering potential economic benefits while simultaneously posing threats to local communities and their livelihoods. Siaya County, rich in natural resources, has attracted the attention of mining companies like Shanta Gold. However, the promise of economic development is met with apprehension among residents who fear losing their homes, culture, and livelihoods.

Historically, mining in various parts of Kenya has led to displacement and loss of land for many communities. This has created a deep-seated mistrust towards mining firms, as past experiences reveal that assurances often remain unfulfilled. The recent forum highlighted that the residents are not merely opposing the mining operations; they are demanding accountability, transparency, and respect for their rights.

Residents’ Concerns

During the forum, residents expressed their frustrations regarding the lack of communication and transparency from Shanta Gold representatives. Despite verbal assurances that no one would be displaced, the company has conducted various studies, including relocation action plans and socio-economic surveys, suggesting otherwise. Colonel Adol emphasized, “A lot of these surveys point towards one direction—relocation,” underlining the community’s fear of displacement.

The chairman of the Ramula Community Development Association stressed the need for the mining company to formalize its commitment in writing. Such documentation could potentially alleviate fears and rebuild trust between the residents and the firm. Adol stated, “If the company does so in writing, the community will reconsider its stance.” This demonstrates the residents’ desire for a collaborative relationship, provided their rights and concerns are respected.

Delayed Engagement and Frustration

The public participation forum, which was meant to address the residents’ concerns, was described by many as long overdue. Patrick Ochieng, a community member and activist with the Haki Madini coalition, voiced his dissatisfaction with the Siaya County government’s delayed response to the petition submitted over a year ago. He accused local officials of allowing the mining company to strengthen its position while the community remained uninformed and unengaged.

Ochieng’s frustration reflects a broader concern about the effectiveness of local governance and the perceived lack of commitment to protecting community interests. He warned residents to prepare for potential relocation, highlighting the gravity of the situation. This sentiment echoes the fears of many communities across Kenya facing similar predicaments in the face of mining operations.

The Role of Civil Society

Civil society organizations, including the Kenya Human Rights Commission (KHRC) and Haki Madini, played an essential role in the public participation forum. Representatives Cornelius Oduor and Florence Ndeti emphasized the importance of prioritizing the community’s interests in any decisions made regarding mining activities. They raised concerns about possible compromises among local officials, which could undermine community rights.

Oduor stated, “Concerns have been raised that some officials have been compromised,” highlighting the need for vigilance and transparency. These organizations offer crucial support to communities, providing legal guidance and advocating for their rights. Their presence at the forum indicates a growing recognition of the need for broader stakeholder engagement in mining activities.

Calls for Dialogue and Transparency

Florence Ndeti urged all stakeholders to engage in open dialogue, emphasizing the importance of addressing “grey areas” in the findings of the company’s surveys. This call for transparency is vital, as the community deserves to be informed about the implications of the mining activities on their lives and land.

Local leaders also voiced their concerns. East Gem member of the county assembly, Seth Baraka, called for peace among residents while stakeholders address the issue. He emphasized the need for any investor in the area to engage with the community and follow proper channels before commencing mining operations.

Commitment from Local Authorities

Siaya County Assembly’s water, environment, and natural resources committee, chaired by Justus Oguta Obuya, assured participants that they would consider the residents’ views and draft a report to the assembly. This assurance is crucial in reinforcing the idea that local governance structures are responsive to community needs.

However, the effectiveness of these commitments remains to be seen. The community’s trust in local authorities is contingent on their ability to advocate for their rights and protect them from potential displacement.

The Need for Sustainable Mining Practices

The situation in Gem Ramula raises broader questions about the sustainability of mining practices in Kenya. The potential for economic development must not come at the cost of displacing communities or damaging their livelihoods. Sustainable mining practices that prioritize community engagement, environmental protection, and respect for human rights are essential for fostering long-term benefits for all stakeholders.

As mining continues to expand across the country, it is imperative that local communities are not only consulted but actively involved in decision-making processes. This requires a shift in the approach of mining companies, local authorities, and civil society organizations to create an environment of trust and collaboration.

Conclusion

The residents of Gem Ramula are standing firm in their demands for written commitments from Shanta Gold mining company regarding their ancestral land. Their call for accountability, transparency, and respect for their rights reflects a growing movement among communities affected by mining operations in Kenya. As stakeholders engage in dialogue and decision-making processes, it is crucial that the interests of local communities remain at the forefront.

The public participation forum served as a critical platform for expressing these concerns, but it is only the beginning of a longer journey towards securing the rights of the Ramula community. The involvement of civil society organizations and local authorities will be pivotal in navigating this complex landscape and ensuring that mining activities do not come at the expense of community well-being. As this situation unfolds, it will be vital to monitor the commitments made and the actions taken to safeguard the rights of the residents of Gem Ramula.