Deputy Minister for Minerals, Dr. Steven Kiruswa, has proposed a lasting solution to the long-standing dispute between landowners and mining license holders in the Nyakafuru gold mining area, located in Mbogwe District, Geita Region.
Speaking during a special meeting that brought together both parties involved in the conflict, Dr. Kiruswa emphasized the importance of honest and constructive reconciliation.
He called on both sides to work collaboratively to reach an agreement that respects the legal and human rights of all stakeholders specifically, the landowners and licensed miners.
To facilitate this process, Dr. Kiruswa announced the formation of a 17-member reconciliation team. The team will oversee the entire negotiation and resolution process, from the village level up to the regional level.
Outlining the team’s responsibilities, Dr. Kiruswa explained that its mandate includes ensuring fairness in land and mineral rights, evaluating compensation claims, facilitating equitable payments, and drafting a formal reconciliation agreement.
This agreement will be signed by all parties and submitted to the Ministry of Minerals for official recognition.
Providing context, Mbogwe District Commissioner Sakina Mohamed highlighted that the dispute has persisted for nine years without resolution, significantly impacting the district's ability to generate revenue from gold production.
She urged all stakeholders to take advantage of this opportunity for dialogue and closure offered by Dr. Kiruswa.
Commissioner Sakina also praised Dr. Kiruswa for his continued efforts to promote justice and cooperation between the involved parties.
Further elaborating on the issue, Mbogwe District Resident Mining Officer, Engineer Jeremiah Hango, noted that multiple attempts have been made at various administrative levels from village to district but a lasting resolution has remained elusive.
Under the Mining Act, Chapter 123, Sections 95 and 96, landowners have rights to the surface of the land, while licensed miners hold rights to the minerals beneath it.
However, the law also requires that a license holder must enter into a formal agreement with the landowner before beginning any mining operations.
Dr. Kiruswa’s intervention aims to bridge this legal and practical gap through structured and fair negotiations.
