The Secretariat of the International Conference on the Great Lakes Region (ICGLR), has convened the 30th Regional Committee against the Illegal Exploitation of Natural Resources in Nairobi, Kenya

The High-level meeting which has been organized in collaboration with the State Department for Mining Republic of Kenya, with the technical support from the German Federal Ministry for Economic Cooperation and Development, Government of Kingdom of Netherlands and European Union.

The objectives of the meeting is to review progress achieved by member states in implementing their respective national road-maps related to six tools, Audit the committee on Status of implementation of the Regional initiatives and receive the report from Ad Hoc Sub committees on assessment of regional initiative against the illegal Exploitation of Natural Resources which will update the Committee on way forward.

The landmark meeting marks a significant milestone in advancing sustainable mineral resource management and deepening regional cooperation across member states.

While giving opening Statement the Chairperson of the ICGLR Regional Committee Mr. Quesnay de Jesus Akabahinga said this is a very important meeting that will deliberate on how to work in unison on the agenda on exploitation of natural resources which is rampant in the Lake Region.

His Statement was echoed by the Executive Secretary of ICGLR Secretariat Ambassador Joao Samuel Caholo said the regional meeting which is a precursor of the Ministerial meeting which will take place in Zambia will come up with tangible deliverables in line with the 6 points agenda.

The Permanent Secretary for Mining Republic of Kenya Dr. Harry Kimutai said Kenya has gained from the expertise from the ICGLR secretariat particularly in the mining sector.

“Traceability and accountability of minerals exploration which is supported by empirical data in the region will help member state eradicate the rampant exploitation of natural resources particularly minerals which has proved costly for the great lakes region” said Dr. Kimutai.

The Permanent Secretary also emphasized the importance of the fully integration of the 6 Points tolls in addressing the exploitation of Natural Resources.

The 3 Day Meeting which is being held at Hyatt Regency Nairobi, brings together 13 Great Lakes committee members selected by member states based on competence, the meeting also has the participation of women groups in the great lake’s region.