A transformation wave is sweeping through the mineral-rich Hillo belt in Marsabit County as plans to operationalise at least 59 artisanal cooperative societies in the mining sector gain momentum.
This follows the decision by stakeholders to align their operations with the Mining Act of 2016 in a bid to revive, formalise, and secure the county's vast mineral wealth.
Assistant Commissioner for Cooperatives in charge of Moyale sub-county Meshack Owuor confirmed that the formalisation process is well underway and that a cooperative union to coordinate activities of the newly registered artisanal societies has been established.
Mr Owuor told KNA that the cooperative union aims to harness the potential of over 10,000 members, with renewed focus on artisanal gold extraction in the Hillo mining sites of the Dabel region. "The cooperative movement is not only helping us organise the miners but is also the key to ensuring compliance with safety, environmental and legal standards," said Owour.
