.jpeg&w=3840&q=75)
Highlighting some of the key achievements, Council’s chairperson Francis Mugo notes that since he took office, there has been significant progress in the transformation of the industry.
He says unlike some years back, there has been a drastic decline in infrastructure vandalism and illegal scrap metal exports, a challenge that had previously undermined local industries.
He attributed this to the close collaboration with other agencies and security teams at the county level.
"Since I came to office, we have managed to tackle smuggling and ensured a steady supply of scrap metal for local steel production, and boosting industrial output," said Mugo.
This has also helped protect local jobs and bolstered Kenya's industrial output, reinforcing the importance of the scrap metal sector to the country’s economy, he notes.
He pointed out that through his efforts, an amendment to the Scrap Metal Act has been made to strengthen the regulatory framework, curb vandalism and bring all scrap metal dealers under formal regulation.
Mugo was appointed in February 2023, a critical time following a moratorium on the industry imposed by retired President Uhuru Kenyatta to combat rampant infrastructure vandalism.
The ban had left the sector in turmoil, exposing several structural challenges that needed urgent attention.
“The changes we have made have laid the foundation for a more structured and secure industry, making it easier for key stakeholders, including scrap metal dealers, exporters, and steel millers, to work within a clear legal framework,” he said.
Another notable achievement has been efforts to restore order and credibility to the Council, which was previously plagued by dysfunction and mistrust.
Under his leadership, the Council, he says, has become more visible and effective, earning the trust of industry stakeholders.
“I had extensive consultations with various groups in the sector, including scrap metal associations and steel millers, to understand their needs and challenges, and ensure that their concerns were addressed,” he noted.
However, despite these successes, Mugo has stated that challenges remain which include insufficient staff to manage the growing demands of the industry.
He said restrictions in the Scrap Metal Act limits the Council's ability to hire the necessary personnel, impacting its capacity to effectively enforce regulations and provide oversight.
Looking ahead, Mugo remains focused on addressing these staffing issues while continuing to build on the progress made so far.
He added that with the proposed amendments which will bring in Ministry of Interior into the Council, there will be a close working relationship with National Police Service.
“...even if it is having a unit within the Council to deal with matters vandalism,” he said.
