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The OAG report identified several areas needing improvement to protect the government from financial risks. Key issues included the collection of mining royalties, revenue owed to the government by investors, strengthening the online mining cadastre, forming and operationalizing County Artisanal Mining Committees, and establishing robust revenue and royalty management systems. Additionally, the report highlighted the need to curb illegal mining operations.
PS Mwangi presented the measures and strategies adopted by the State Department to address these concerns. He outlined ongoing reforms aimed at streamlining the mining sector and restoring order and profitability. These reforms include:
- Collaborating with county governments to establish mineral value addition centers.
- Deploying teams for ground-truthing minerals identified by the National Aerial Geophysical Survey (NAGS).
- Cleaning the cadaster system to remove expired licenses.
- Enhancing monitoring and surveillance to shut down illegal mining operations.
PAC Chair Hon. John Mbadi praised the department’s responses and strategies to address the OAG’s concerns. He noted the department’s compliance with the recommendations from both the OAG and PAC, emphasizing that the audit processes are essential for improving departmental performance.
Chair Mbadi also commended the department’s leadership for their proactive approach and comprehensive understanding of the laws, regulations, programs, and operations within the mining sector in Kenya.
