by Jeff Kizzilah
The just concluded Support Inclusive Resource Development (SIRD) regional conference has empowered dozens of women in Kwale county ,Gaita region in Tanzania and Buliisa district in Uganda.
The women were empowered economically and advanced in property rights on land as opposed to males counterparts enlighting them to receive land compensation since they take care of the kids and are vulnerable in the community.
Kwale county boasts largest mines in kenya,hence of the project in the county.
The SIRD had two major components.The first component worked through the patner law societies on law and policy advocacy relating to extractive industries with national and regional governments.
Speaking during the conference held in Mombasa in Kenya, the Burundi Bar Law Socienty President Jean De Dieu Muhezenge has reiterated on the safety standards in the Mining to protect workers and communities,respect and environmental laws and the need for partnership and NGOs since mining impacts health and environment,thereafter calls for inclusive mining involving all stakeholders.
Burundi also has 500 lawyers that carry out varies activities across the country.
He said that if the sector can join hands to work together women will thrive well in the mining sector.
The Regional Conference brought together legal profession from across EAC countries includingKenya,Tanzania and Uganda the fastest growing block in Africa.
Countries like Somalia ans Ethiopia have also expressed interest for joining the block to promote rule of law and human rights.
The successes of the project also focus o. Climate change in extractive industry directly affects the climate.