By Faith Anene, Kakamega
Plans for large-scale gold mining in Ikolomani have come under renewed scrutiny after Kakamega Senator Boni Khalwale declared that no mining activities should commence until investors and local communities reach a fair agreement on benefit sharing and land rights.
Speaking during a public participation forum convened by the Senate Standing Committee on Land, Environment and Natural Resources in Ikolomani on Monday, Khalwale said residents of Ikolomani, Shinyalu and Lurambi would oppose any mining project that fails to safeguard their interests.
“No mining activity should commence until we achieve a genuine win-win solution that protects our people while allowing responsible investment. We welcome investment, but it must be just, inclusive and beneficial to both our communities and the investors,” he said.
The forum, chaired by Senate committee chair Mohamed Faki, brought together residents, local leaders and officials from Shanta Gold, the company seeking to develop the Kakamega Gold Project.
Khalwale challenged the current revenue-sharing model, arguing that proceeds from the mining project should be shared equally between investors and host communities rather than relying solely on royalty payments.
“My message was clear and unequivocal: our people will not be displaced to create room for investors without a fair, transparent and mutually beneficial agreement. The rights, livelihoods and dignity of our communities are non-negotiable,” he said.
He proposed a 50-50 revenue-sharing arrangement, saying such a model would ensure host communities receive a fair share of the wealth generated from their natural resources.
Residents and local leaders also insisted that any investor seeking to undertake mining in Bushiangala Village must operate transparently and involve the community throughout the project.
They said no gold extraction should proceed without a legally recognised Community Development Agreement to guarantee direct benefits to residents and address their concerns before operations begin.
In response, Shanta Gold officials assured the Senate committee and residents that the company remains committed to engaging the community and complying with all legal requirements before the project begins.
The company said it is ready to continue consultations with stakeholders, negotiate a Community Development Agreement and ensure mining activities are carried out responsibly and in accordance with Kenyan law.
Shanta Gold maintained that the project has the potential to create jobs, improve infrastructure and stimulate economic growth in Kakamega County.
However, the company acknowledged that sustained dialogue with affected communities will be critical to building trust and securing the social licence needed to proceed with the project.
