By Aweye Teddy Onam
National Constitutional Amendment Committee (NCAC) has started reviewing and amending the Mining Act 2012 to establish a stable legal mining environment in the country.
Starting on Thursday 16th November, the review is being attended by key stakeholders including members of the National Legislative Assembly, government institutions, and the mining ministry.
Chairperson of the National Constitutional Amendment Committee, Gichira Kibara said that the review aims at creating a robust legislative framework of the mining industry in the country.
It also aimed at attracting investors and effective governing of the mining sector.
Meanwhile, the Minister of Mining, Martin Abucha said the amendments come at a time when the Mining Act 2012 has been tested for eight years, after 2015 signing of the Mining Regulation.
“I take this opportunity to call upon all of you, the stakeholders and participants to make your views and opinions to enrich the proposed Amendments of the Mining Act 2012 and also I expect you to participate actively and have a productive discussion,” he urged.
Abucha said the mining cadaster system which is used to allocate concession has been established and its functional planning is to be upgraded.
“Small-scale Mining Licenses were issued to alluvial gold in 3 states of Eastern Equatoria, Central Equatoria state and Western Equatoria State but 17 of those were revoked for non-compliance with Mining Act 2012.”
Abucha emphasized the Ministry’s priority to efficiently implement its mandate through the Mining Bill, 2023, by establishing the South Sudan Mining Cooperation, Mining Authority, and South Sudan Geological Authority.