The Diaspora University Trust (DUT) has unveiled a Sh2 billion initiative in Taita Taveta County, focusing on limestone and marble extraction alongside infrastructure development. The project includes a university town, medical hospital, biotechnology lab, and vaccine research facility, as outlined in a 2013 report on local community efforts.
Residents of Ndara B community recently toured Kenya Marble Quarry in Kajiado County to study mining operations. Dr. Sankale ole Shombole, a U.S.-based scientist managing Kajiado Central mining sites, highlighted Taita Taveta's high-quality limestone deposits, noting their potential to generate revenue through raw materials and manufactured products like terrazzo and livestock feed.
DUT Executive Trustee Dan Kamau explained the project originated from systems to track diaspora remittances, referencing a 2014 study on diaspora engagement. Local residents have donated 1,500 acres near Voi for the development. The trust guarantees purchase of locally produced materials, aiming to leverage diaspora capital through its credit system, a strategy aligned with 2017 diaspora voting initiatives.
Financial data shows diaspora remittances totaled Sh392 billion between October 2020 and September 2021, underscoring the economic context for the initiative.
