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The Kenyan Cabinet’s recent approval of the Mineral Processing and Value Addition Policy in 2023 is set to revolutionize the country’s mineral sector. This policy is designed to maximize revenue, create jobs, increase foreign exchange earnings, and boost tax revenues through local processing and value addition of minerals.
Gemstone Initiatives:
A significant highlight of this policy is the establishment of the Voi Gemstone, Value Addition, and Marketing Center. The facility, now operational, is equipped with marketing booths leased to gem traders and artisanal miners’ groups, providing a platform for local gemstone processing and marketing.
Gold Refinery in Kakamega:
In a move to enhance the local gold market, a private investor has begun constructing the Ksh 5.8 billion Kakamega Gold Refinery in Ikolomani. Scheduled to be operational by early next year, this refinery will not only process raw gold but also offer a ready and favorable market for artisanal gold miners.
Revival of Fluorspar Plant:
The long-closed fluorspar processing plant in Elgeyo Marakwet County is set for revival. The Ksh 4.8 billion facility, which ceased operations in 2016, is expected to resume by February 2024, boosting local fluorspar processing and economic activities in the region.
Granite Processing Facility:
Vihiga County will soon witness the construction of a granite processing plant. The site will be handed over to an investor on July 26th to initiate the project. This facility aims to enhance local granite processing and contribute to regional economic development.
Soapstone Processing in Kisii:
A new soapstone processing plant in Kisii County is also part of the policy’s implementation. This facility will significantly add value to local soapstone, creating jobs and economic opportunities for the local community.
Future Projects:
The policy outlines ambitious future projects, including establishing a copper processing plant in Eastern Kenya and an iron-ore value-addition facility in Taita-Taveta County. These initiatives are part of a broader strategy to engage strategic investors and set up mineral-specific value-addition facilities across all counties.
Strategic Goals and Community Impact:
The ultimate goal of these initiatives is to fully exploit the transformative potential of Kenya’s mineral resources. By prioritizing investments in local processing and value addition, the policy aims to foster grassroots development and promote economic growth at the community le
With these strategic moves, Kenya is poised to significantly boost its mineral sector, ensuring better revenue, job creation, increased foreign exchange earnings, and higher tax revenues. The government’s commitment to local processing and value addition is set to transform the economic landscape, offering a brighter future for the mineral-rich regions of Kenya.
