Ruiru: Scrap metal dealers across the country have raised an alarm over the continued harassment by the police despite the legalization of the multi-billion industry. They said police continue to extortionate, harass and frustrate them, forcing several of them to quit the industry.
According to Kenya News Agency, during a stakeholders meeting in Ruiru town, the traders emphasized that the industry has significantly improved the country's economy, bringing in billions of shillings as foreign exchange and requiring empowerment. They presented their grievances to the chairman of the Scrap Metal Council of Kenya, Francis Mugo, who assured them that the government continues to recognize the industry and that the sector has been fully licensed and legalized.
Mugo urged traders not to give in to extortion by corrupt police officers but instead report such cases to senior authorities. He emphasized that this is a legitimate business that is growing and supporting key sectors of the economy, including the affordable housing project championed by President William Ruto. He called on police officers to cease invading yards and demanding bribes, stating that the harassment will no longer be tolerated.
Mugo revealed that the industry had earned the country over Sh15 billion in foreign exchange in 2024 alone, Sh8 billion in 2023, and Sh2 billion in 2022, highlighting the need for support. Since the Kenya Kwanza government came into power two years ago, he noted that the sector has seen unprecedented growth, with scrap materials now forming a key input in the ongoing affordable housing mega projects.
Evans Ng'ang'a, a representative of the Knight Club and Iron Metal Dealers Association, reiterated the industry's potential but expressed concern over the importation of scrap metal, which he said undermines local production. Ng'ang'a stressed the importance of prioritizing local capacity, stating that Kenya is capable of producing enough steel and that discussions with the government are ongoing to address this issue.
The traders, led by Gladys Macharia, have called on the government to recognize and protect the scrap metal sector, describing it as not only a source of livelihood for thousands of Kenyans but also a strategic contributor to national development. They emphasized the need for continued dialogue to ensure the industry thrives without interference. Macharia suggested that the sector should be empowered similarly to the coffee and tea industries due to its significant potential.