Kenya is steadily advancing in the implementation of the six tools and the regional initiatives responsible for combating the illegal exploitation of natural resources.
Mining Principal Secretary (PS) Harry Kimtai said that the six tools include Regional Certification Mechanism, Harmonization of National Legislations, Regional Database on Mineral Flows, Formalization of Artisanal Mining Sector, Extractive Initiative Transparency Initiative, and Whistleblowing Mechanism.
Speaking during the convening of the secretariat of the International Conference on the Great Lakes Region (ICGLR), Kimtai said that Kenya has made significant strides in strengthening its legal and regulatory framework and has commenced the targeted efforts to formalize the artisanal and small-scale mining sector. "Illegal exploitation of natural resources has long been recognized as a major factor fueling conflicts, undermining governance, and impeding economic growth across the region," said Kimtai.
According to the PS, the six tools against the illegal exploitation of natural resources provide a comprehensive framework for addressing these challenges. "As a region our commitment must be to fully operationalize the six tools and ensure their integrity and strengthen their impact," said the PS.
