This archive report was first published on 10 September 2019.
Successful industrialization anywhere in the world has been linked to successful minerals supply chains. Kenya's mining sector has the potential to add significant value to other economic sectors, deliver jobs, and stimulate associated enterprises.
One notable success story is the Kwale Base Titanium mining enterprise, which has become a modern-day mining best practice with visible socio-economic benefits. To replicate this success, Kenya needs to create similar mining projects across the country.
The government, investors, and stakeholder communities must work together to achieve mining sector success. The government must create an attractive investment environment, while investors must be willing to invest in de-risked projects with documented data. The mining department must also build capacity to drive a vibrant mining industry.
Geological mapping of Kenya's mineral resources is crucial to marketing the country's potential to investors and reducing risks. The government must urgently undertake such surveys to provide critical information for investment decision-making.
Community issues must be handled with respect and prudence to avoid unnecessary conflicts. The mining department must take leadership in investor/community conflict resolutions and have effective community relations capacity to align investor and community aspirations.
As witnessed at a recent forum on coal development in Kitui County, community mistrust can hinder project development. Misinformation and factual inaccuracies can create mistrust, and it is essential to address these issues to progress development.
Kenya's coal deposits in Kitui County have potential industrial uses beyond power generation, such as cement production and steel industry supply. Mining and industrialization should be twined in policies targeting national and regional economic development.
