THE Kitui government has given a firm associated with Nigerian billionaire Aliko Dangote the go-ahead to prospect for limestone in the Kanziku-Simisi area, Kitui South subcounty.
Governor Julius Malombe on Tuesday met Ado Dangote and Muneer Khan of the Dangote Cement Messrs at the county headquarters.
He said the county government is not against limestone prospecting, but investors must follow due process.
Malombe said the investor must work hand-in-hand with the Community Liaison Committee.
The governor said the committee, headed by Vincent Mutambu, has experts who would ensure the best deal for residents.
Malombe said the limestone will benefit the community and the nation at large.
He said the county government formed the committee to ensure residents who might be ignorant of the value of minerals are not duped.
Malombe said the county government has a constitutional mandate to guide the residents on how to manage resources.
Dangote said his firm will adhere to the rules and laws set out by the county government.
He said the firm will ensure there are mutual benefits.
Minerals executive George Mulatya said the exploitation will benefit residents.
Committee on Minerals and Environment chair Musee Mulongo said residents expect full benefits from minerals which have been found in the county. Coal and iron ore have also been discovered in Kitui county.
He said Kitui is a “county of minerals” which should be developed to create wealth.
