By Nicholas Manduku
The just concluded Support Inclusive Resource Development (SIRD) regional conference has empowered dozens of women within Kwale county ,Gaita Region in Tanzania and Buliisa district in Uganda.
The over 8176 women were empowered economically and advanced in property rights on land as compared enlighting them to receive land compensation since they take care of the kids and are vulnerable in the community.
Of this 4615 were female,3561 were males,majority were 56% and Canadian volunteers who participated technically.
The project’s inception long in 2017.
Kwale county boasts as the largest mines in kenya,hence of the project in the county.
The SIRD had two major components.The first component worked through the patner law societies on law and policy advocacy relating to extractive industries with national and regional governments.
Speaking to journalists during the SiRD conference held in Mombasa,Kenya, Mr.Stephen Kuria,Chairperson Mineral Rights Board ,Ministry of Mines and Petroleum Kenya who also represented the Cabinet Secretary for Mining has asked for the safety standards in the Mining to protect workers and communities,respect and environmental laws as well as the need for partnership and NGOs, since mining impacts health and environment,thereafter calls for inclusive mining involving all partners.
He said that, if the sector can join hands to work together women will thrive well in the mining sector and do somethingthat can create various opportunities.
The Regional Conference brought together legal profession from across EAC countries including Kenya,Tanzania and Uganda the fastest growing block in Africa.
Countries like Somalia ans Ethiopia have also expressed interest for joining the block to promote rule of law and human rights.
The successes of the project also focus on Climate change in extractive industry directly affects the climate.
He said the Kenyan government is ready to work with and support the vulnerable groups including women to realize their achievements in the property management as well as land ownership
