A section of leaders and elders in Garissa County has called on the national government to lift the ban on gypsum mining imposed about a year ago due to insecurity at mining sites.
Mohamed Aress said legitimate mining companies provided jobs for youth, supported communities with food and water during droughts, and contributed to tax revenue and local infrastructure.
They maintained that insecurity in Garissa town should not be used to stop operations in interior areas such as Balambala, Korakora and Alinjugur.
The leaders also urged Mining Cabinet Secretary Hassan Joho to develop a plan for value addition of gypsum in the region and to crack down on illegal miners.
“By reinstating gypsum mining, the companies aim to restore economic vitality and support sustainable development,” Aress said.
