Coal-rich Mui-basin residents protest against Coal mining

Kitui,

Sunday, November 5, 2023

KNA by Denson Mututo/ John James

Hundreds of Mui Basin residents on Friday stormed Kitui Governor's office protesting against plans by the national government and Kitui County government to begin coal mining activities in the area.      

Irate residents brought normal business in Kitui town to a standstill for hours, as they marched along the town streets.

The aggrieved Mui basin residents castigated the joint initiative by the national and County Government of Kitui, to kick off coal mining in Kitui's 4 coal-rich blocks, block A, B, C and D.

Speaking to the media, Peter Mutemi who is also the executive director Center for Human Rights and Citizenship Education (CHRCE) organization said, President Ruto has stood out as a global champion for sustainable environment, however, he's also championing environmental pollution in his own country, thus conflicting his civil defense agenda for Kenyans at large.

“Coal mining comes along with so many unbearable uncertainties including displacement of local communities as well as pollution of the natural environment,” Mutemi regretted.

Upon marching through the streets of Kitui town, the coal- rich field Mui basin community, the residents stormed Governor Dr Julius Malombe’s office and presented their petition meant to halt the planned coal mining.

In the petition, the irate residents are pleading for their governor's intervention to stop known catastrophic consequences associated with coal mining especially on people residing at or near by coal mining fields as well as environmental destruction. 

Mutemi, the Executive Director of CHRCE, while addressing the demonstrators, called for the urgent need to “power up clean energy and power down fossil fuels,” highlighting the global significance of their movement. 

He also regretted the detrimental effects of coal on human health and the destruction of environment, and warned of the possibilities of desertification resulting from the coal mining.

“Message from the residents is a clear call to the Governor to convey to President William Ruto that his plans for establishing coal mining in Kitui County should be halted,” Mutemi asserted. 

“Instead, the focus should shift to investing in clean, renewable energy sources.” He advised.

Mutemi's statement resonated with the governor's manifesto which underscores a commitment to clean energy. The governor's initiatives, such as the establishment of solar power plants in Kalundu-Kitui, demonstrate a dedication to a cleaner and more sustainable energy future. 

At the Kitui Governor’s offices, the demonstrators were received by the county government Chief Officer of Environment and Forestry (CO), David Soi Masai, and Humble Khalid Ashur Mahmud, the Chief of Staff of Kitui County. They also received the demonstrator's petition on behalf of the governor.

 Mutemi also symbolically presented a “death certificate,” which was, in reality, a petition, to the two key representatives in the governor's office

The residents' appeal is not only a local matter but is intended to reach the highest ranks of the Kenyan government. Their message underscores the global call for clean energy solutions and a halt to practices that pose threats to the environment and human health.

In response to the demonstrators' concerns, CO Masai and Chief of Staff Khalid Ashur Mahmud reassured the Mui basin demonstrating residents that the county government's utmost priority was a clean and sustainable environment. 

The duo chief officers, while addressing irate residents, mentioned the recent launch of a tree planting initiative in Mutonguni-Kitui as evidence of their commitment. 

Kitui county government officials pledged to collaborate with all stakeholders involved in energy to ensure a coordinated approach under the governor's guidance.

The CHRCE, along with the protesting residents of Kitui County, delivered a strong message, hoping for a swift response from their government.

The significance of this demonstration reaches far beyond the streets of Kitui County. It is a clarion call for clean energy solutions that resonates with environmental advocates and policymakers worldwide.

Courtesy; KNA