Kenya, Indonesia ink deal to boost mining sector
The government of Kenya and Indonesia have sealed a deal set to boost the mining sector. The MoU was inked after discussions and plans outlined by officials from both countries.
According to Salim Mvurya, Kenya’s Cabinet Secretary for Mining, Blue Economy, and Maritime Affairs, key areas of collaboration under the MoU include matters of geology, laboratory upgrading, testing and sampling, and capacity building. Mvurya emphasized the importance of improving testing and sampling capabilities within the country, noting that current laboratories are not up to international standards.
Partnership
The collaboration with Indonesia aims to facilitate the acquisition of technology, expertise, and capacity building necessary for upgrading Kenya’s mining laboratories to meet international standards. The initiative also includes plans to upgrade Madini House in Nairobi and establish eight additional laboratories in the region, with the goal of achieving ISO certification for a laboratory in Kenya. This move is expected to enhance the country’s mining sector and attract investment.
Rita Susilawati, a government official from Indonesia’s Directorate of Mineral and Coal, expressed Indonesia’s commitment to collaborating with Kenya to accelerate the growth of the mining sector. Both countries discussed the commencement of MoU implementation and the establishment of an international standard testing and certification laboratory in Kenya.
Mvurya also emphasized the involvement of both the public and private sectors in illuminating mining opportunities in Kenya, with plans to develop a framework for implementation that outlines specific responsibilities and action points for government officials from both countries.
