Background and Rationale:
Mining activities, particularly artisanal and small-scale mining (ASM), play a critical role in economic development and livelihoods in many regions. However, poorly managed mining operations often result in degraded land, including soil erosion, contamination, loss of biodiversity, unsafe pits, and reduced agricultural productivity. These impacts pose long-term environmental, social, and climate risks.

Mine land rehabilitation is a core pillar of sustainable and responsible mining. When properly implemented, rehabilitation restores ecosystem functions, improves community safety, enhances climate resilience, and supports alternative livelihoods.

The Centre for Sustainable Mining, Environment, and Climate Change (CESMECC) is organizing an online webinar to provide a platform for knowledge exchange among practitioners, policymakers, researchers, mining communities, and development partners.

Objectives of the Webinar:
– Build awareness on the importance of mine land rehabilitation
– Share best practices and lessons learned from rehabilitation projects
– Explore nature-based and climate-smart rehabilitation approaches
– Discuss policy, regulatory, and institutional frameworks
– Foster collaboration among key stakeholders

Key Thematic Areas:
– Impacts of degraded and abandoned mine lands
– Principles of mine closure and rehabilitation planning
– Nature-based solutions for mine restoration
– Soil remediation and re-vegetation
– Community participation and livelihood integration
– Financing and partnerships for rehabilitation
– Case studies from Kenya and beyond

Target Audience:
– Artisanal and small-scale miners
– Mining companies and consultants
– Environmental practitioners
– Government regulators and policymakers
– Researchers, students, and civil society organizations

Expected Outcomes:
– Enhanced understanding of rehabilitation practices
– Increased awareness of environmental and climate benefits
– Knowledge sharing through practical case studies
– Identification of partnership opportunities

Format and Delivery:
The webinar will be delivered online through expert presentations, panel discussions, and interactive Q&A sessions.

Conclusion:
The webinar aims to strengthen collective efforts toward restoring degraded mine lands and advancing sustainable mining practices.