The 2023 Trafficking in Persons Report on Kenya assesses the country's efforts and challenges in combating human trafficking. Key findings include concerns about inadequate resources for victim protection, limited legal safeguards for vulnerable populations, and the prevalence of trafficking in refugee camps and informal settlements. It was reported that traffickers exploit Kenyan children in labor trafficking in cattle herding. Recommendations urge Kenya to strengthen law enforcement responses, increase funding for victim services, and address the root causes of trafficking through education and economic empowerment. The report emphasises the importance of international cooperation and partnerships to combat cross-border trafficking networks effectively.
Keywords: Sub-Saharan Africa, Kenya, cattle, primary production, human trafficking, child labour
Source: https://www.state.gov/reports/2023-trafficking-in-persons-report/kenya/
In 2023, Kenya’s Western Regional Mining Officer suspended gold mining in Vihiga County due to increased illicit activities and violent disputes. The region is believed to contain immense gold deposits and foreign companies have been condemned for attempting to mine without proper licences or work permits. In addition, unlicensed firms have been found posing as artisanal miners in order to evade taxes. This has caused a significant loss of revenue for the Kenyan government, subsequently prompting the suspension of all activity. This comes after six Chinese nationals were arrested for illegal mining activities, including operating without the necessary licences and work permits required. The area has been declared a conflict zone, and the moratorium is said to remain in place until all mining operations comply with legal regulations. Local leaders and residents have been urged to support the enforcement to restore order and legal compliance in the mining sector.
Keywords: Sub-Saharan Africa, Kenya, minerals, gold, primary production, procurement of permits, illegal mining
Sources: https://nation.africa/kenya/counties/vihiga/state-suspends-gold-mining-citing-rise-in-illicit-activities-4330162