Scrap metal dealers who will engage in the trade without license stare at heavy penalties as state announces the lifting of ban imposed on the trade.
While making the announcement on Wednesday, Industrialization, Trade and Enterprise Development Cabinet Secretary Betty Maina said the lifting of the ban which is effective May 1, 2022 will only be allowed to duly registered and licensed dealers as illegal traders now face heavy fines.
CS Maina said, any person undertaking scrap metal trade without a license commits an offence and is liable to fines ranging from Kshs. 10 million to Kshs. 20 million as part of tough measures aimed at regulating the sector. She added that All licensed dealers must also register as members of a Business Member Organization.
In January this year, President Uhuru Kenyatta announced a moratorium on scrap metal following wanton vandalism of key state infrastructure.
The license is not transferable and dealers are required to prominently display them at their businesses.
During the announcement of the moratorium, the government had suffered heavy losses as a result of vandalism of electricity transmission infrastructure, the Standard Gauge Railway and communication masts which were deemed economic sabotage by the President.