Department for Mining Engages with Parliamentary Committee to Strengthen Kenya's Mining Sector

 

The Principal Secretary for Mining, Elijah Mwangi, led a senior delegation from the Department for Mining in a consultative meeting with the Parliamentary Committee on Environment, Forestry, and Mining. The meeting, held at Bunge Towers, aimed to review the mid-year implementation status of key programs within the department and align them with the financial allocations in the 2025 Budget Policy Statement.

The session served as an important platform for discussing the department’s progress, challenges, and future goals. The PS presented notable achievements up to December, which included the formation of 244 artisanal miners' marketing cooperatives, the revitalization of the fluorspar processing plant, and the establishment of a gold refinery. Additionally, the department shared updates on its ongoing crackdown on illegal mining activities.

The dialogue also focused on setting clear targets for the remainder of the year while ensuring that departmental objectives align with funding priorities. The goal is to sustain momentum toward accelerated economic growth and support the rapid realization of the BETA (Big Four Agenda) goals.

Acknowledging the department’s robust performance, particularly in surpassing most set targets, the committee pledged its support for additional funding to bolster these programs. The committee specifically highlighted the impressive revenue generation efforts within the mining sector, which were seen as a positive indicator of the department's commitment to results.

Hon. David Gikaria, the Nakuru Town East Member of Parliament and Chair of the Committee, reiterated the massive potential of the mining sector to become a key pillar of Kenya’s economic growth. He emphasized the importance of adequate funding for crucial activities such as geological exploration and mineral mapping, which are vital for discovering untapped mineral resources and attracting both domestic and foreign investment.

The committee also recognized the need for increased funding for the National Mining Corporation to support the government's efforts in harnessing strategic minerals and incentivizing joint ventures.

The Department for Mining expressed its sincere gratitude for the committee's continued support in its reform journey, reaffirming its vision to transform Kenya's mining sector into a cornerstone of the country’s economic development.

With ongoing commitment from both the government and the parliamentary committee, the sector is poised for further growth, with an emphasis on sustainable practices, increased exploration, and enhanced investor confidence.

February 21, 2025