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PS Mining Elijah Mwangi joined CS Ministry of Investment, Trade, and Industry Salim Mvurya in a meeting with Taita Taveta County leadership to discuss the establishment of an iron-ore value addition and processing facility in the region. The meeting, led by Governor Andrew Mwadime, included Deputy Governor Christine Kilalo, Senator Jones Mwaruma, Wundanyi MP Danson Mwashako, and Voi MP Khatib Mwashetani.
Taita Taveta County is renowned for its rich deposits of gemstones, including tsavorites, rubies, tourmalines, and garnets. Additionally, the county boasts significant deposits of iron ore, presenting a substantial opportunity for economic transformation through local processing and value addition.
The discussions focused on the establishment of an iron-ore processing facility aimed at adding value locally rather than exporting raw iron ore. This initiative aligns with the government’s policy of value addition, which is expected to create jobs and spur development within the county.
Governor Mwadime emphasized the transformative potential of local processing. “By establishing an iron-ore processing facility, we can unlock the economic potential of our natural resources, creating jobs and fostering development in Taita Taveta County,” he said.
CS Mvurya highlighted the strategic importance of the project. “This facility will not only boost the local economy but also position Taita Taveta as a key mineral processing hub in Kenya. It complements the existing Gemstone Processing, Value Addition, and Marketing Center, further enhancing the county’s economic profile,” Mvurya stated.
PS Mwangi noted the potential for significant socio-economic benefits. “Value addition to our iron ore deposits will ensure that we retain more value within the region, leading to economic growth and improved livelihoods for the local communities,” he said.
The proposed iron-ore processing facility is expected to provide numerous benefits, including:
- Job Creation: The facility will create direct and indirect employment opportunities for residents, contributing to the reduction of unemployment in the region.
- Economic Development: By processing iron ore locally, the county can boost its industrial capacity and attract further investments.
- Enhanced Revenue: Value addition will increase the market value of iron ore, generating higher revenue for both the county and national governments.
- Skill Development: The establishment of the facility will necessitate training and skill development for local workers, enhancing their employability.
Senator Mwaruma and MPs Mwashako and Mwashetani expressed strong support for the project, noting that it would play a crucial role in the county’s development agenda. “This is a game-changer for our region. We are committed to supporting this initiative to ensure it becomes a reality,” said Mwashako.
The leaders resolved to expedite the planning and implementation phases of the project, with a commitment to ensuring that the local community benefits maximally from the venture. The meeting concluded with a pledge from both national and county government officials to work collaboratively towards the successful establishment of the iron-ore processing facility in Taita Taveta County.
