The government is actively devising a plan to permit mining activities within national parks and other protected regions across the nation.
This initiative was disclosed by Taita Taveta Governor Andrew Mwadime during a meeting held on Monday, March 25, attended by Cabinet Secretaries Alfred Mutua (Tourism) and Salim Mvurya (Mining).
This announcement followed closely after Interior Cabinet Secretary Kithure Kindiki’s directive to cease all illegal mining operations immediately. Governor Mwadime expressed support for the national government’s decision, particularly acknowledging Taita Taveta’s significant mineral wealth.
Governor Mwadime further revealed plans to convene a county mining stakeholders’ gathering to deliberate on the procedures for granting artisanal miners access to national parks and protected areas for mineral exploration and exploitation.
Once the protocols are established, Mwadime aims to authorize artisanal miners’ entry into Tsavo West and Tsavo East national parks.
This move follows a previous agreement designating County Mining Committees to oversee the issuance of licenses to small-scale miners.
Notably, Tsavo National Parks are believed to harbor minerals such as sapphire, emerald, garnets (including tsavorites), among others.
Artisanal mining is prevalent not only in Taita Taveta but also in other regions including Kakamega, Vihiga, Siaya, and Migori counties. The Ministry of Mining estimates that over 1 million Kenyans rely on mining as their primary economic activity, with approximately 960 different mineral deposits across the country remaining under-exploited.
By allowing exploration within national parks, the government aims to fully harness Kenya’s mineral resources, thereby maximizing its economic potential.
