GOVERNOR MUTULA PUTS SAND CARTELS ON NOTICE, VOWS TO INTENSIFY CRACKDOWN

Makueni Governor Mutula Kilonzo Jr has issued a stern warning to illegal sand traders, declaring that his administration will not back down in enforcing strict regulations that govern the county’s sand sector.

Mutula said his government remains unwavering in the fight against illegal sand harvesting, despite continued push back by cartels.

He noted that the practice undermines the dignity of the county and exposes residents to the severe risk of water insecurity. He vowed to dismantle rogue networks profiting at the expense of communities and the environment.

Addressing the situation in Kilome, where a total ban on sand harvesting has been in place for two months, the governor reported significant progress. He said local committees are currently reviewing the state of the area, and the county will announce the next steps once it is satisfied that any future harvesting will fully comply with established regulations.

Mutula also revealed plans to take the county beyond conservation by venturing into sand value addition. He said his administration intends to invest in technologies and infrastructure that will enable Makueni to process sand into high-value products once resources allow, an initiative expected to boost county revenue and create jobs for residents.

The governor made the remarks while presiding over the absorption of 44 staff into the Makueni Sand Conservation and Utilization Authority, part of broader efforts to reinforce the county’s environmental protection and sand conservation agenda.