Miners and traders are pressing Mining Cabinet Secretary Hassan Ali Joho to release a major survey report. The survey, done by the National Intelligence Service (NIS), details Kenya’s mineral deposits and could boost sector investments.
The Kenya Chamber of Miners says the withheld data is crucial for investors assessing the sector’s viability. NIS conducted the survey in 2018 to avoid potential misuse by foreign firms. Patrick Kanyoro, Chamber chairman, emphasized the need for transparency under the Access to Information Act.
The survey aimed to attract foreign investors with reliable data on mineral resources. Kenya’s mining has been active for over 50 years, but productivity remains low. Current mining focuses on soda ash, mineral sands, and depleted Titanium ores. Potential minerals like copper, gold, and niobium are under-exploited, limiting the sector’s economic impact.
Kenya’s mining sector could earn $6.6 billion, about 10% of GDP, if fully utilized. The sector’s GDP contribution has stagnated at 0.7 to 0.9% in recent years. Former Mining CS Salim Mvurya noted the survey identified 970 mineral deposits nationwide.
Last October, the Ruto administration lifted a moratorium on prospecting miners licenses, allowing new exploration.
Also read: Israel Broadens Evacuations in Khan Younis as Conflict Intensifies.
