Kenya flags off vehicles to crack down illegal mining

The government of Kenya has taken a significant step to combat illegal mining operations in Kenya by launching a fleet of 10 vehicles dedicated to surveillance and monitoring. Mining Cabinet Secretary Salim Mvurya and Mining Principal Secretary Elijah Mwangi flagged off these vehicles, emphasizing their importance in bolstering logistical and operational capabilities across the country.

The state department for mining highlighted the pivotal role these vehicles will play in enhancing transparency and efficiency within the sector. By providing field offices with better resources, the government aims to promote a safer, more profitable, and attractive environment for investors.

Streamlining the mining sector

CS Mvurya underscored the importance of ongoing reforms aimed at streamlining the mining sector, inviting investors to capitalize on the favorable conditions in Kenya for mineral investments. The deployment of these vehicles is expected to significantly improve surveillance activities, particularly in remote areas, thereby increasing compliance with mining regulations.

Furthermore, the department emphasized that the vehicles will enable quicker identification and action against illegal mining operations, with a particular focus on hard-to-reach locations. CS Mvurya also commended the dedication of security agencies in enforcing mining laws and combating criminal activities in the sector. Mining in Kenya yields high-grade quantities of gold, copper, ilmenite and tantalum. Kenya is also an important source of non-metallic minerals including soda ash, limestone, salt, niobium, fluorspar and fossil fuels.