February 12, NAIROBI – Senator Richard Onyonka of Kisii County has raised alarm over the escalating environmental and human rights violations linked to unregulated quarrying activities in the region. He has called for an immediate investigation, invoking Standing Order No. 53-1, to address the growing concerns surrounding the operations of Nyando Building Extracts Limited, a company reportedly owned by Chinese nationals.
The senator’s statement highlights several pressing issues that have been plaguing local communities, including:
- Destruction of Natural Resources: Quarrying activities have been destroying critical ecosystems, leading to significant biodiversity loss.
- Water Pollution: Local water sources are being contaminated, posing severe health risks to residents.
- Land Erosion: Previously arable lands have been eroded and rendered unproductive, affecting local agriculture and livelihoods.
Onyonka specifically pointed out troubling allegations against Nyando Building Extracts Limited, including forced displacement of residents without proper compensation, property destruction to make way for mining operations, and reports of bribery and harassment used to silence opposition.
Affected areas include:
- Kiomooncha Location
- Marani Sub-location
- Mote Momwamu Area (on the boundary between Kisii and Nyamira counties)
- Tabaka, known for its soapstone quarries
The senator has called on the Standing Committee on Land, Environment, and Natural Resources to urgently:
- Investigate Mining Licenses: Provide a comprehensive report on the status of licenses granted to Nyando Building Extracts Limited.
- Conduct Environmental Impact Assessments: Verify whether proper environmental assessments were conducted before granting operational licenses.
- Ensure Compensation for Displaced Residents: Outline steps to ensure that individuals displaced by quarrying activities receive due compensation in line with the law.
- Mitigate Environmental Damage: Provide measures to address the environmental degradation caused by quarrying activities.
In addition, Senator Onyonka has raised concerns over the lack of adherence to the Kenya Kwanza (KK) Alliance manifesto, which emphasizes the importance of local value addition in mining. According to the manifesto, mining companies should establish local factories to employ residents and enhance the value of extracted minerals. However, the senator expressed concerns that this policy is not being implemented in Kisii County.
With environmental damage continuing and increasing air pollution in the affected areas, Onyonka has emphasized the need for the committee to act swiftly to resolve the issues and protect the interests of local communities.
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