CS Joho urges MPs to collaborate on boosting Kenya’s mining sector

Hassan Joho, Cabinet Secretary for Mining, Blue Economy, and Maritime Affairs, has urged Members of Parliament to collaborate on crafting a comprehensive policy framework to enhance the mining sector’s contribution to Kenya’s economic growth.

Speaking to the National Assembly’s Departmental Committee on Environment, Forestry, and Mining, Joho emphasised the need for unified efforts to ensure the sector delivers widespread benefits for all citizens.

Joho's call for cooperation reflects the government's commitment to ensuring the mining industry realises its full potential while fostering sustainability and equitable development for Kenyans.

In his presentation, the CS outlined several government strategies designed to ensure that the mining industry remains advantageous to the local population while enforcing compliance with licensing laws among investors.

"Hon. Members, I am under your purview as a Committee of the National Assembly. I am here to seek your support so that my Ministry can get adequate resources and a sound framework to accelerate the growth of the mining sector," he stated.

A key issue raised was the payment of royalties to communities impacted by mining activities.

The CS  pointed out that foreign companies have been extracting minerals without compensating local communities for over a decade.

He proposed that royalty payments be made at the point of loading cargo.

"We now want this done at the point of loading the cargo." This measure, Joho noted, would create opportunities for young Kenyans to prosper in the sector.

The Cabinet Secretary also urged local investment in mining, citing successful examples from countries like Indonesia and China, where young entrepreneurs have emerged as billionaires through mining ventures.

He encouraged Kenyans not to leave the industry solely to foreign investors.

Additionally, CS Joho called for the establishment of world-class mineral laboratories to enhance value addition and increase income from mining activities.

He highlighted his ministry's commitment to transforming the sector by deploying experts at every border point and increasing police presence to ensure compliance.

Accompanied by Elijah Mwangi, Principal Secretary in the State Department for Mining, Joho suggested that the Committee consider a benchmarking visit to Tanzania, which he noted has made significant advancements in its mining sector.

The Committee, chaired by Hon. David Gikaria of Nakuru Town East, welcomed the CSs plans and expressed support for his vision of ensuring that Kenyans benefit directly from mining royalties.