On May 22, 2022, the government took a crucial step to protect the environment in Isiolo County by temporarily shutting down gold mining in the Kom area.
According to Isiolo County Commissioner Geoffrey Omoding, the miners were using heavy machinery to crush stones without considering the environmental impact of their activities.
Omoding directed the miners to stop operations immediately, allowing the National Environmental Management Authority (NEMA) to conduct an environmental impact assessment and provide guidelines for future mining activities.
He also instructed NEMA officials to expedite the assessment and provide a report as soon as possible.
Additionally, Omoding announced plans to post an assistant County Commissioner to the Kom area to reduce the distance residents travel to access government services in Merti town, which is approximately 75 km away.
Furthermore, he directed gold miners to obtain licenses from relevant government authorities before commencing their activities.
Regarding security, Omoding stated that GSU officers deployed to the Kom area have settled in, and those posted to Mlango and Attan areas will be reporting in the next few days.
He also urged chiefs and their assistants to collaborate with elders in creating awareness among herders to surrender illegal firearms, emphasizing that the amnesty to hand in firearms still stands.
Lastly, Omoding announced plans to redeploy former National Police Reservists (NPRs) to reinforce security officers in tackling banditry and cattle rustling in the area.
As part of the government's efforts to address the drought situation, Omoding stated that over 20,000 people are on the cash transfer program, and development partners are distributing 4,500 bags of livestock feed to drought-affected herders.
He also mentioned that the Food and Agricultural Organization (FAO) will distribute 3,500 bags of 50kg range cubes to livestock owners in the second phase of the donation.
