Kenyan mining sector stakeholders are urging the government to strengthen oversight and enforcement of regulations governing mineral resources and employment. The goal is to ensure Kenyan professionals benefit fully from opportunities within the nation’s mining industry. Concerns have been voiced regarding consistent non-compliance by mining companies, which reportedly limits crucial opportunities for local engineering professionals to develop skills, acquire knowledge, and advance their careers.
The Call for Stronger Enforcement
At the Mining Engineers Society of Kenya (MESK) annual event, Chairman Joseph Komu emphasized the persistent disconnect between legal requirements and actual practices within the mining sector.
- Komu stated, “As a society, we strongly believe in the vision of a mining sector that creates sustainable opportunities for Kenyans. This can only be realised if the legal provisions that safeguard local participation are fully enforced.”
He revealed that many mining operations continue to function with few or no qualified Kenyan technical professionals, a situation that contravenes the Mining Act and Local Content Employment and Training Regulations. He specifically urged the State Department for Mining to prioritize the involvement of qualified engineers before issuing mining permits.
- Komu argued, “This single requirement would significantly improve technical standards, safety, efficiency, and environmental stewardship across the sector, while creating meaningful jobs for Kenyan professionals.”
Government’s Perspective and Ongoing Reforms
Thomas Mutwiwa, Secretary of Mining at the Ministry of Mining, Blue Economy & Maritime Affairs, representing Principal Secretary Harry Kimtai, reaffirmed the government’s commitment to increasing the mining sector’s contribution to the Gross Domestic Product (GDP) from its current level of less than 1 percent to 10 percent. He outlined several ongoing reforms aimed at achieving this goal:
- Online Mining Cadaster System: This system streamlines the process for license applications.
- Royalty Management System: This system is designed to track production and revenues generated by the mining sector.
- Explosives Management System: This system aims to improve the safety and security of explosives used in mining operations.
Mutwiwa also mentioned that regulations are being developed to distribute collected royalties. He cited Kwale County as an example, stating that it is expected to receive approximately Sh1.6 billion, with Sh800 million specifically allocated to local communities.
He further emphasized the importance of collaboration among all stakeholders: “We should collectively work together so that we lift the sector and move forward in terms of growth.” Mutwiwa also assured that mining professionals would be actively involved in the formulation of future policies.
Untapped Potential and Economic Transformation
Shammah Kiteme, President of the Institution of Engineers of Kenya (IEK), challenged professionals to leverage Kenya’s vast mineral resources. He specifically pointed to the untapped coal deposits in the Mui Basin, estimating their value at Sh4 trillion.
- Kiteme asserted, “The coal we have in this country can give us Sh5 trillion and fund the entire economic transformation roadmap announced by President William Ruto without borrowing a single shilling.”
Sector Growth and Recovery
The appeal for enhanced regulation and local participation comes at a time of optimism for the Kenyan mining sector. Recent data indicates significant growth, with mining and quarrying activities expanding by 15.3 percent in the second quarter of 2025. This growth suggests a potential recovery following the departure of Base Titanium at the end of 2024. The renewed focus on regulatory compliance and local empowerment could further accelerate this positive trend, ensuring the sustainable and equitable development of Kenya’s mineral resources.
