Led multi-disciplinary Environmental and Social Impact Assessments (ESIAs) for two major gold mining developments in Western Kenya: the Ramula–Mwibona open-cast mines in Siaya and Vihiga Counties, and the Isulu-Bushiangala underground mining operation in Kakamega County. These projects required careful consideration of both surface and sub-surface impacts across ecologically and socially sensitive landscapes.

We delivered a fully integrated ESIA process aligned with International Finance Corporation (IFC) Performance Standards and Kenyan regulatory requirements under NEMA, ensuring the projects met both local compliance thresholds and international lender expectations.

Our methodology combined rigorous scientific assessment with stakeholder-informed analysis, ensuring that environmental and social considerations were embedded into early-stage design and decision-making rather than treated as downstream compliance requirements.

Key technical components included:

• Biodiversity & Critical Habitat Assessments Detailed field surveys and habitat mapping were conducted to identify sensitive ecosystems and species of conservation concern. Critical habitat screening ensured alignment with IFC PS6 requirements and informed avoidance and mitigation strategies.
• Air Quality & Blasting Impact Modelling Predictive modelling assessed emissions, dust dispersion, and vibration impacts associated with open-cast blasting activities, enabling the design of mitigation measures to protect nearby communities and ecosystems.
• Water Resource Assessments (Surface & Groundwater) Hydrogeological studies evaluated potential impacts on water availability, quality, and downstream users, ensuring sustainable water management in both operational and closure phases.
• Ecosystem Services Analysis Identification and valuation of ecosystem services supported local livelihoods (e.g., agriculture, water access), ensuring these were incorporated into impact mitigation and compensation planning.
• Social, Cultural Heritage & Human Rights Assessments Comprehensive socio-economic baseline studies, stakeholder engagement, and human rights risk screening ensured that vulnerable groups, land use dynamics, and cultural heritage considerations were fully addressed.

• Secured environmental approvals from NEMA within required timelines
• Supported the successful acquisition of mining licenses and investor confidence
• Reduced project risk by proactively identifying and mitigating environmental and social impacts
• Enabled responsible resource extraction aligned with international ESG expectations