The ground-breaking ceremony for the construction of the Sh2.5 billion Vihiga granite processing plant at Emwatsi in Emuhaya Sub County has been done.
Speaking at the function Friday, Principal Secretary State Department for Mining, Elijah Mwangi, said the plant will take three months to complete, adding the project would empower residents economically.
Mwangi stressed that both skilled and unskilled labour should come from the region to ensure the community benefits from local resources. He insisted the aim of the project is to create job opportunities for youth and women to empower them economically.
Mwangi said 10% of the royalties will go back to the community as per the Mining Act.
Vihiga Governor Dr. Wilber Ottichilo said the project is being undertaken by Equip Agency Limited, which has been tasked with completing it within 90 days.
A resident, John Otiende, welcomed the project, saying they are happy as it will empower them economically. ‘’Women and youth will be kept busy at the granite processing plant; hence, they will not indulge in criminal activities and other social vices,’’ she said.
By Maureen Imbayi and Brandon Liaha
