Joho Call for Compensation of Kokotoni Residents in Rabai

By Robby Ngoba

Email, thecoastnewspaper@gmail.com

Mining and Blue Economy cabinet secretary Hassan Ali Joho has ordered mining companies to compensate residents of Kokotoni village in Rabai constituency of Kilifi County whose houses were affected by the quarry blast activities.

The directive follows concerns raised about environmental hazards and blasting that has caused cracks houses and other structural damages raised by the area MP Kenga Mupe  and the locals.

Speaking in Rabai when he accompanied the area MP to witness the commissioning of Kailo Comprehensive School administration block, the CS said that quarry companies needed to rehabilitate the damages caused and compensate  for the losses or else face closure.

“I have listen to the grievances raised by the residents and even their leaders, particularly the blasting and dust, impacting their health and properties. These are issues we cannot compromise.

Its a business the investors are doing but the locals deserve to be respected and must benefit.”

According to the CS every mining company must comply to the community development agreement committee implaced and commit at least 1% gross revenue to fund projects chosen by the community.

He assured that the government was committed in addressing mining issues raised by citizens.

“The Kenya Kwanza government has already taken several steps including suspending mining operations in Kilifi and Taita Taveta counties due to health concerns and demanding revenue transparency.”

The lawmaker, on his part, said the blasting activities have caused structural damages to many houses neighbouring the quarries.

“The persistent blast and dust emitted by the quarry machines has triggered tremors, visible cracks in walls and perimeter fences.

I urge the government to speed its intervention so that our people can be compensated for the losses and to safeguard their well-being,” he said.

Mupe revealed that most of the quarry companies use explosive gadgets, which according to him put the residents lives at risk.

The legislator urged the mining companies to be more transparent about their operation and to engage the community in meaningful  programmes.

“The locals feel that they have not been properly informed about the mining activities leading to a lack of trust.”

He said many locals are grappling with infant mortality, crop failure because of the effects of the quarry activities.

Johnson Kialo, a resident, said for over years the quarrying activities has take a toll on his family’s health.

According to him children are struggling to breathe due to the dust emitted from the blasting of stone.

“Our lives has worsened instead of improving. Whenever they blast stones neighbour houses develop cracks,” he said.