Scrap metal council chairperson Francis Mugo/FILEThe Scrap Metal Council has urged dealers and other players in the industry to comply with the law amid concerns over unlicensed operations, illegal trade and vandalism of public infrastructure.
The council said the scrap metal business remains a regulated sector because of its sensitivity and the risk it poses to private property, public assets and critical national infrastructure.
In a statement issued on Friday, the council chairperson, Francis Mugo, said they had noted an increase in dealers operating without licences, describing such operations as a criminal offence punishable under the law.
Mugo also raised concern over cases involving the importation and exportation of scrap metal without the required permits and approvals.
He urged all dealers to ensure they have the licences and documentation before engaging in the business.
The warning comes amid concerns over the theft and destruction of public infrastructure, with scrap metal dealers coming under scrutiny over the disposal and purchase of materials suspected of having been illegally obtained.
The council said it was concerned about what it described as increasing illegal exportation and smuggling of lead-acid batteries.
According to the regulator, exportation of lead-acid batteries is prohibited, making their movement out of the country without authorisation a violation of the law.
The council warned that the practice could have economic consequences, particularly for Kenya's local battery manufacturing industry.
He said the council considered illegal exportation and smuggling of the batteries a threat to local manufacturing and said it could undermine the country's industrialisation agenda.
The council called on scrap metal dealers and other industry players across the country to conduct due diligence before purchasing or trading in scrap materials.
It also urged operators to maintain documentation for their transactions and ensure that materials handled through their businesses have been obtained through legitimate channels.
The council further cautioned industry players against engaging in or supporting activities linked to vandalism of private property, public facilities and critical national infrastructure.
The council said such vandalism has been a concern, particularly where materials such as metal components from electricity infrastructure, roads, railway facilities and other public installations are reportedly targeted for sale.
The council said compliance with the law was critical in creating a responsible and sustainable scrap metal industry.
It said the regulator remained committed to fostering a transparent industry that contributes positively to Kenya's economic growth while supporting the country's industrialisation agenda.
The statement dated August 21 urges industry players to work within the established regulatory framework.
The council said dealers who fail to comply with licensing and other legal requirements risk facing action under the law.
It further stressed the need for operators to exercise caution when acquiring scrap metal and verify the source and documentation of materials before accepting them.
The warning is expected to increase scrutiny of scrap metal dealers and traders as authorities seek to curb the vandalism of infrastructure and illegal movement of restricted materials.
The council urged all industry players to work with regulators and other government agencies to promote lawful trade and protect national assets.
It said a properly regulated scrap metal sector would not only safeguard property but also support legitimate businesses and contribute to Kenya's manufacturing and industrial development.
