Mining Principal Secretary Harry Kimtai/HANDOUT

The Ministry of Mining, Blue Economy and Maritime Affairs has clarified that Shanta Gold Kenya Limited's prospecting licence remains valid despite a court ruling setting out legal and regulatory requirements governing the company's gold mining project in Siaya and Vihiga counties.

The clarification follows a judgment delivered on October 29, 2026, by the Environment and Land Court in Siaya in Constitutional Petition No. E002 of 2025, consolidated with Petition No. E003 of 2025, concerning the Ramula, Munungo and Uranga sub-locations.

In a statement, Mining Principal Secretary Harry Kimtai said the government respected the independence of the Judiciary and was committed to implementing the court's directions in accordance with the Constitution and applicable laws.

"The Ministry remains committed to ensuring that all mining activities are undertaken responsibly, transparently and in full compliance with the law, while safeguarding the rights and interests of affected communities," Kimtai said.

The Ministry moved to clarify that the court did not issue an order stopping Shanta Gold Kenya Limited's activities, nor did it cancel, suspend or revoke Prospecting Licence No. PL/2019/0222.

It maintained that the licence remains valid and in force, but emphasised that activities relating to the project must comply with the legal framework and conditions outlined in the judgment.

The court ruling addressed concerns raised by residents over constitutional rights, land ownership protections and public participation in the proposed mining project.

Among the key issues addressed were the need to safeguard community land rights and ensure that mining activities adhere to constitutional and statutory requirements.

The court also issued a conservatory order prohibiting involuntary resettlement, forced relocation or displacement of residents in the affected sub-locations.

The decision places renewed focus on the government's responsibility to ensure that mining investments proceed within the law while protecting communities whose land and livelihoods could be affected by extractive activities.

The Shanta Gold project is among the developments expected to contribute to Kenya's growing mining sector as the government seeks to attract investment, expand mineral production and create economic opportunities.

However, the latest court directions underline the importance of balancing investment ambitions with environmental safeguards, community rights and meaningful public participation.

The Ministry assured residents of Siaya and Vihiga counties, investors and other stakeholders that it would fully comply with the court's orders and ensure that subsequent actions relating to the project are guided by the law.

It also reaffirmed the government's commitment to promoting responsible and transparent mineral exploration and development across the country.