Marking a significant evolution in the mining sector, the Kenya National Chamber of Commerce & Industry (KNCCI) hosted the inaugural mining stakeholders’ forum today at the Nairobi Serena Hotel. The forum, was attended by industry leaders and key stakeholders, aimed at evaluating the current landscape and charting a robust future for the mining sector in Kenya.

The forum was graced by the presence of KNCCI CEO Mr. Patrick Nyangweso, who, in his opening remarks, emphasized the importance of active participation and knowledge exchange to foster reforms in the mining sector.

KNCCI Mining Committee Chairperson Eng. Charles Komen, highlighted the significance of this inaugural forum, acknowledging it as a major step towards addressing sector challenges and ensuring a robust future for mining in Kenya. He emphasized the recent discovery of coltan in the country, stating its crucial role in energy transition and positioning Kenya advantageously in the shift to green technology.

The Chamber Vice President Mr. Mustafa Ramadhan, emphasized Kenya’s rich mineral resources, including titanium in Kwale, gold in Migori and Kakamega, and promising oil reserves in Turkana. He noted KNCCI’s extensive international affiliations spanning 177 countries, which serve as a robust platform to promote and further grow the mining sector internationally.

The Chamber President, Dr. Erick Rutto, expressed KNCCI’s commitment through the mining committee to shape the future of the sector by exploring value addition opportunities and fostering investment, responsible business practices, and cross-border collaborations.

Principal Secretary of the Ministry for Mining, Mr. Elijah Mwangi, highlighted the government’s initiatives in streamlining the sector, including modernizing mining labs, creating a transparent Online Mineral Cadastre (OMC), and the development and impending gazettement of mineral rights.

Deputy High Commissioner Permanent Representative (UNEP and UN Habitat) from the Zambia High Commission, H.E Mr. Alfred Musemuna, articulated Zambia’s keen interest in promoting Foreign Direct Investment (FDI) in the mining sector and announced an upcoming trade mission aimed at fostering business ties between Zambia and Kenya.

Managing Director of KenInvest Ms. June Chepkemei, pointed out the government’s goal to elevate the mining sector’s GDP contribution from 0.9% to 10%, noting the vast untapped mineral resources across Kenya.

MSEA Chairman Mr. James Mureu, discussed the ministry’s focus on supporting MSMEs in the mining sector through various initiatives, including access to mining rights, risk management, shared infrastructure, and capacity building.

Governor of Baringo County Hon. Benjamin Cheboi, spoke about the potential for diatomite and gemstones in Baringo and his commitment to enhancing security to foster business growth through mining in the region.

The Chief Guest, Hon. Cecily Mutitu Mbarire, Governor of Embu County, lauded KNCCI for the initiative and its focus on the rapidly evolving mining sector. She acknowledged the Mining Act and the establishment of a fully-fledged ministry as key milestones contributing significantly to the country’s economic growth.

This forum by KNCCI marks the beginning of a collaborative and strategic approach to explore the full potential of Kenya’s mining sector, ensuring sustainable growth, innovation, and global competitiveness.