[Photo/ PSCU]
By PSCU
The government will compensate landowners in the Kerio Valley who were affected by fluorspar mining, President Uhuru Kenyatta has announced.The President directed the Cabinet Secretary for Mining, Mr Dan Kazungu, to visit the area and address the longstanding issue.The government is expected to make a payout of at least Sh1 billion to the landowners.President Kenyatta made the announcement on Saturday when he visited the high altitude village of Chepkorio in Elgeyo Marakwet County.The President assured those whose land was taken over for fluorspar mining that in a weeks’ time the Ministry of Mining officials will compile the list of the affected and thereafter start the process of compensation in about two weeks’ time.The President said his administration is committed to the welfare of all Kenyans.“Unlike our opponents who were in the coalition government, ours is a government of serving wananchi and not taking care of personal interests,” President Kenyatta said.He said it is unfortunate that opposition leaders are lying to Kenyans and yet they are just concerned with their individual Interests.“If they were serious with leadership why will they lie to each other about positions in government and at the same time some of them rush to secure tickets to vie for senator and also put their names for nominations in similar leadership positions,” asked President Kenyatta.He assured the residents the government will tarmac the Nyaru-Iten road.Thousands of wananchi cheered him as he spoke assuring him of turning out in large numbers on August 8th to vote back the Jubilee administration to continue with the good work.The President also pointed out that Kimwarer dam construction will commence in July.He said the government has set aside Sh1.1 billion for the Iten-Tambach water project saying this is a proof that Jubilee is keen to carter for the common people throughout the country.The President later addressed another rally at Waunifor Centre in Ainabkoi, Uasin Gishu, where he urged residents to turn out in large numbers to vote for Jubilee.The President, who was accompanied by Uasin Gishu Governor Jackson Mandago, said the Jubilee Government has initiated development projects that has boosted the country’s economic prosperity. “Our aim is development that reaches all Kenyans. You have seen all the work we are doing including expanding access to electricity, free exams, free maternity and this road that was neglected by other governments,” said the President.The President said opposition leaders who are busy insulting Jubilee leaders have no agenda for the country.