Shanta Gold Urges Ikolomani Residents to Speak Up on Proposed Relocation

Shanta Gold Company has called on residents of Ikolomani to continue presenting their views on a proposed relocation plan for households living within identified gold deposits. The appeal was made during a public participation forum held at Bushiangala Secondary School, as the company seeks to maintain dialogue ahead of exploration activities in the area.

Speaking to community members, Shanta Gold’s Washington Ogutu said the firm is ready to listen to locals from every perspective. He emphasized that the company’s approach is anchored on transparency, inclusion, and respect for the people who will be most affected by mining operations.

“We have heard you and we will continue listening to you,” Ogutu told the gathering. “We ask everyone to have a say in this matter. No voice should be left out because this concerns land, homes, and livelihoods.”

According to Ogutu, Shanta Gold has already conducted several public participation meetings in different parts of Ikolomani. However, turnout and written submissions have remained low. The company says it is concerned that a small response rate could mean some families are not aware of the process, or are unsure how to engage.

The proposed relocation targets residents whose homes sit directly above or within areas mapped as gold-bearing. Mining laws in Kenya require that communities be consulted and adequately compensated before any displacement occurs. Shanta Gold says it intends to follow that process closely and to avoid a situation where anyone is surprised or excluded when exploration moves to the next phase.

Ogutu assured residents that all feedback, whether support, concerns, or counter-proposals, will be documented and reviewed by the company’s technical and community teams. He said the firm will make extra efforts to reach elderly residents, persons with disabilities, women-led households, and tenants who may not own land but still live in the affected zones.

“We want to make sure every household is counted,” he said. “Exploration is not about rushing people out. It is about planning together so that when the work begins, no one is left behind or harmed.”

Community members at Bushiangala raised questions about timelines, compensation rates, alternative land, and how schools and water points will be protected. Others asked for clarity on how the company will verify who qualifies as an affected resident.

Shanta Gold officials responded that details on valuation, resettlement options, and grievance mechanisms will be shared in follow-up forums. They also urged residents to use local chiefs’ offices, school meetings, and the company’s liaison desk to submit their views in writing or in person.

The company reiterated that exploration cannot proceed responsibly without community trust. For Ikolomani residents, the coming weeks are expected to be a period of more barazas, household visits, and information sharing as Shanta Gold tries to widen participation.