Kenya has announced that the precious coltan mineral, which is used in the manufacture of cell phones, laptops, and other communication gadgets, has been found in the country.
The rare metallic mineral, predominantly located in the eastern region of the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), is primarily utilized in the manufacturing of widely-used electronic devices like mobile phones, laptops, and video game consoles.
The identification of this mineral in Kenya is expected to enhance the country’s standing as a mineral exporter.
Cabinet Secretary Salim Mvurya, responsible for mining and the blue economy, announced the discovery of substantial coltan deposits in six counties.
The CS mentioned that the government is in the process of planning and seeking investors to initiate mineral extraction for export purposes. He further revealed that the mining sector has encountered various challenges historically, such as insufficient investments. Nevertheless, the government is now dedicated to revitalizing the sector.
“Some have been carrying out mining of precious minerals without licenses; we shall weed out all those investors who don’t follow the law. We want mining to be a business where investors comply with all aspects of the law,” he lamented, stating that illegal mining is rampant in the country and the vice must be eradicated.
To fast-track the mineral testing exercise across the country, the cabinet secretary said the government will set up mineral testing laboratories in eight regions to ascertain the real minerals for each county.
”I have spoken with my PS, and we shall set up regional laboratories to have a clear test of the quality of minerals found in a particular area,” Muvurya said when he addressed locals in Ntharawe, Embu County.
Embu Governor Cecily Mbarire said the minerals would in a big way change the economy of the county since 20 percent of the mineral income will go to the county with 10 percent going to the residents. She, however, urged the government to weed out unlicensed miners who, he said, were misusing the locals.
