Unfortunately, scant attention was paid to what could possibly be the most significant overhaul in the new legislation: the provision of artisanal and small-scale mining. More should and can be done to start taking this sector seriously as an economic contributor and vehicle for improving livelihoods now that the legislative framework is in place. Most artisanal and small-scale mining activity in Kenya is either in gemstones or gold. There needs to be pragmatism about how quickly Kenya can start formalising artisanal and small-scale mining and when it does, it will be important to manage expectations. Financial organisations experienced in funding small-scale agricultural enterprises can adapt their debt "collaterisation" mechanisms for artisanal miners.

Source: Daily Nation October 04, 2016 19:41 UTC