Sifuna Raises Fresh Questions Over Mrima Hill Mining Deal, Demands Answers From Joho and Achani

Nairobi Senator Edwin Sifuna has put President William Ruto’s administration on the spot over plans to attract investors to Kwale’s mineral-rich Mrima Hills, insisting that local residents must benefit from the exploitation of their natural resources.

Addressing supporters during the Linda Mwananchi movement’s rally in Kwale on Saturday, October 31, Sifuna questioned why the government was pursuing new mining investments while communities affected by previous operations were still demanding compensation.

He specifically cited the activities of Best Titanium, claiming that residents had not received compensation despite the company completing its mining operations and leaving the area.

Sifuna argued that the government should first address outstanding concerns affecting mining communities before entering into fresh arrangements with investors.

“Sisi hatuna haja na mwekezaji. Sisi tuna haja na mwananchi wa Kwale,” he declared, saying the priority should be the welfare of residents rather than the interests of companies seeking access to the minerals.

The senator also questioned the transparency surrounding the proposed Mrima Hills mining project, demanding that the government disclose the terms of investment agreements and explain how communities would benefit.

He challenged Mining Cabinet Secretary Hassan Joho and Kwale Governor Fatuma Achani to explain their efforts towards securing compensation for affected residents.

Sifuna further criticised the government’s response to calls for disclosure of mining agreements, arguing that Kenyans should have the opportunity to scrutinise contracts involving valuable natural resources.

He maintained that demanding accountability should not be interpreted as an attempt to frustrate investors, adding that communities deserved clear information about projects undertaken on their land.

The Nairobi senator also raised concerns about land ownership along the Coast, alleging that some title deeds issued to residents contained inaccurate maps that failed to reflect actual property boundaries.

He warned that such discrepancies could expose families to disputes and threaten their ownership rights.

His remarks come amid growing public debate in Kwale over the proposed Mrima Hills mining project, with residents previously raising concerns about consultation, compensation, land ownership and the distribution of mineral revenues.

The rally formed part of Linda Mwananchi’s grassroots mobilisation campaign as the movement seeks to establish its presence across the country ahead of the 2027 General Election.

https://peopledaily.digital/inside-politics/sifuna-faults-ruto-for-seeking-influence-over-kwale-minerals-as-locals-await-compensation

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