Kisii County government has been urged to turn soapstone mining into a large industry to improve living standards of the county residents.
In a passionate speech on Tuesday during the launching of a soapstone sculpture outside Kisii University Library, Vice Chancellor Prof. John Akama said the soapstone business has not been taken seriously by the county government.
He said that if the industry is well utilised, then it will see thousands of young people get employment besides generating good revenue for the county government.
“Tabaka soapstone mines have not been taken seriously by the county leadership. By now, the county government should have invested heavily in the business as a means of creating jobs for many youths in the region,” said Prof. Akama.
However, Prof. Akama observed that the county government has done well in many other sectors. He also said that it is vital to remind the county leadership of economically potential areas, like the soapstone one, so that they can exploit it for our people to benefit.
He said that the site was a potential investment by Tourism and Hospitality Industry given its legendary status in the society besides encouraging youths to join soapstone industry.
“Tabaka has a historical memory to members of this community. It is a good tourist attraction centre and that is why we should woe investors to open up an industry in the area instead of transporting our products to Nairobi and to other parts ok the world. This is a good opportunity for our youths to make money,” said Prof. Akama.