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{
    "id": 1489450,
    "url": "https://info.mzalendo.com/api/v0.1/hansard/entries/1489450/?format=api",
    "text_counter": 105,
    "type": "speech",
    "speaker_name": "Moyale, UPIA",
    "speaker_title": "Hon. Prof. Guyo Jaldesa",
    "speaker": null,
    "content": " Hon. Speaker, pursuant to the provisions of Standing Order 44(2)(c), I rise to request for a statement from the Chairman of the Departmental Committee on Administration and Internal Affairs regarding re-opening of Hilo Gold Mine in Dabel, Moyale Constituency. In 2023, the residents of Moyale discovered traces of gold in the Hilo area of Dabel in Marsabit County. Following a prolonged drought between 2021 and 2023 during which pastoralists lost more than 80 per cent of their livestock, the discovery of the Hilo Gold Mine offered a new life-line and an alternative means of livelihood for the community. However, in March 2024, a disagreement between two artisanal miners resulted in a tragic loss of lives. Consequently, the Ministry of Interior and Administration of National Government ordered a 30-day closure of the gold mine citing insecurity and the absence of proper administrative structures to manage the site for the welfare of the community and other stakeholders. Since the closure, several positive developments have taken place. Community organisations have transformed into co-operatives to oversee the administration and management of their natural resource. Unfortunately, it is alleged that some members of security agencies have begun engaging in illegal mining activities in the area. They provide misleading response to justify the continued closure thereby excluding residents from benefiting from the situation. In September 2024, Marsabit County leaders met with the Cabinet Secretary for Interior and Administration of National Government to discuss the re-opening of the Hilo Gold Mine and other security concerns. Although there was a unanimous agreement to re-open the mine, just two weeks later, the Cabinet Secretary extended the closure by another 30 days, further disadvantaging the local community. The electronic version of the Official Hansard Report is for information purposesonly. A certified version of this Report can be obtained from the Hansard Editor."
}