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Mining Principal Secretary Elijah Mwangi has once again distinguished himself as a top-ranking government official, thanks to his transformative leadership and key reforms in the Department of Mining. His efforts have significantly advanced the mining sector, particularly in empowering artisanal miners and revitalizing regulatory frameworks.
One of Mwangi’s most notable achievements is the opening and operationalization of the first-ever Gemstone Value Addition and Marketing Center in Voi, Taita-Taveta County. This landmark facility is a game-changer for the artisanal mining sector, which has long been marginalized and underappreciated. The center offers essential services such as gemstone identification, valuation, polishing, cutting, and packaging. These processes are designed to protect artisanal miners from exploitation by middlemen and ensure they receive fair value for their precious stones.
The establishment of the Gemology Center marks a new era in Kenya’s mining industry, where the contributions of artisanal miners are finally being recognized and supported. This initiative is part of Mwangi’s broader strategy to dignify the artisanal mining sector, providing it with the tools and infrastructure needed to thrive.
In another significant move, PS Mwangi has lifted the four-year moratorium on issuing prospecting and mining licenses, albeit on a partial basis. The lifting is fully open to construction and industrial minerals, while strategic minerals remain reserved for government exploitation through the National Mining Corporation (NMC). However, investors can engage in joint ventures with NMC to obtain mining rights for strategic minerals, which are awarded on a case-by-case basis.
Mwangi’s proactive engagement with the Artisanal Mining Association of Kenya has further solidified his reputation as a reformer. His interventions include decriminalizing artisanal mining activities, organizing miners into marketing cooperatives, developing value addition centers like the one in Voi, and sensitizing miners on health and safety practices. Additionally, Mwangi has expedited the formation of artisanal mining committees in various counties to streamline the license issuance process and decentralized laboratory services to the regions, making them more accessible to miners.
PS Elijah Mwangi’s role in the Ministry of Mining is marked by decisive actions and a clear vision for the sector’s future. His leadership has not only enhanced the operational efficiency of the department but also ensured that the benefits of mining are equitably shared among all stakeholders. Under his guidance, the Department of Mining is poised to achieve even greater milestones, cementing Mwangi’s status as one of Kenya’s most effective Principal Secretaries.
