Mining engineers decry delays in obtaining state approvals, warn of job losses

The Mining Engineers Society of Kenya (MESK) has raised an alarm over the delays in obtaining approvals from the Ministry of Mining, Blue Economy, and Maritime Affairs.

This is even as the government seeks to reform the industry.

The players have called on the government to expedite the licensing process for mining activities, warning that the industry is in jeopardy.

The Chairman of the lobby group Joseph Komu, highlighted the urgency of the situation, especially in light of the imminent closure of Base Titanium, Kenya's largest mining company, located in Kwale County.

Komu stressed that the closure would lead to considerable job losses and a dramatic decrease in government revenue from the sector.

“The urgency to fast-track the licensing of already vetted mining companies in the county cannot be overstated, particularly now that Base Titanium is winding down. We are facing a major backlog, and if this persists, many qualified mining professionals in Kenya could be left unemployed. With the government's focus on youth employment, the mining sector needs immediate attention,” Komu said.

During his vetting, Mining Cabinet Secretary Hassan Joho said he will adopt a multi-pronged approach to tackle issues facing the sector.

The approaches, he said, will touch on boosting revenue collection, reviewing mining laws, incentivising new investors, promoting artisanal miners and fighting illegal mining.

The Mining Engineers Society of Kenya during a visit to the Base Titanium on September 5, 2024. (Photo: MESK)

Joho noted that the mining sector contributes one per cent to the national GDP with projections showing the sector’s contribution can rise to 10 per cent.

“Mining is a bedrock for Kenya’s economic growth. If well managed, this resource can settle our debt and yield revenues to spur national development,” Joho said.

To tackle the issue of illegal mining, the CS emphasised the need for increased involvement of security agencies at the county level.

He noted that illegal mining should not occur if law enforcement agencies are adequately vigilant.

The CS called on county security teams to actively combat criminal activities, with a particular focus on illegal mining operations, and ensure that those responsible are held accountable.

“Illegal mining is a criminal act. Security agencies must address it as such,” Joho said.

So far, over 3,000 illegal mining operations have been shut down as part of a determined effort to eliminate these unlawful activities. Despite the efforts, illegal mining persists due to inadequate enforcement resources and a lack of coordinated action among state agencies.

The CS likened illegal mining to economic sabotage, stressing that the unauthorised extraction of Kenya's minerals without paying royalties must be strictly punished.

“Minerals are finite. Failing to pay royalties is essentially jeopardizing our future generations. This practice must end,” the CS said.