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| PS mining Elijah Mwangi |
By John Kariuki
The government has reaffirmed its commitment to phasing out the use of mercury in gold processing among artisanal and small-scale miners, a move aimed at safeguarding human health and the environment.
This was the key agenda at the 8th Project Steering Committee (PSC) meeting, where Principal Secretary for Mining, Elijah G. Mwangi, joined Principal Secretary for Environment and Climate Change, Dr. Eng. Festus Ngeno, to evaluate the progress of ongoing initiatives and assess the implementation of mercury-free gold processing technologies.
Mercury, a highly toxic substance, has been widely used in gold extraction by small-scale miners due to its affordability and efficiency in binding with gold particles. However, its severe health risks—including neurological disorders, respiratory complications, and environmental degradation—have raised significant concerns globally.
The Kenyan government, in collaboration with international partners, has been championing sustainable and environmentally friendly gold extraction methods. The PSC meeting reviewed the adoption of mercury-free technologies, including gravity concentration, direct smelting, and cyanide leaching, which offer safer and more efficient alternatives to traditional mercury-dependent processes.
Speaking at the meeting, PS Elijah G. Mwangi emphasized the government’s determination to transition artisanal miners towards sustainable practices.
"The heavy use of mercury in gold mining not only endangers the health of miners but also contaminates water sources and ecosystems. Our goal is to ensure that small-scale miners embrace safer alternatives that protect both their livelihoods and the environment," he said.
The meeting also addressed policy frameworks, capacity-building initiatives, and financial support mechanisms to facilitate the transition to mercury-free mining. Stakeholders, including mining associations, environmental experts, and development partners, are working closely to provide training, technical support, and funding for small-scale miners to adopt modern processing methods.
PS Dr. Eng. Festus Ngeno reiterated the Ministry of Environment’s commitment to enforcing regulations that align with global environmental standards.
"Eradicating mercury use is not just a national goal but an international obligation. Through joint efforts, we are ensuring that our mining industry is aligned with global best practices for environmental sustainability and public health protection," he stated.
Kenya’s efforts are in line with the Minamata Convention on Mercury, a global treaty aimed at reducing mercury pollution and protecting communities from its harmful effects. With continued collaboration and government intervention, the country is set to achieve a mercury-free gold mining sector, improving the livelihoods of thousands of artisanal miners while preserving the environment for future generations.
As the implementation of these measures gains momentum, miners and stakeholders are urged to embrace the shift towards safer, more sustainable gold extraction techniques, ensuring a healthier and more environmentally responsible mining industry in Kenya.
