Fluorspar Mining Company in Kenya to resume operations
The Fluorspar Mining Company is set to resume works. Cabinet Secretary Ministry of Mining Salim Mvurya confirmed the report and said that after a nine-year halt in operations the firm will come back to life within the next six months.
The company has been granted a 25-year lease, with the land and all movable assets reverting to the government upon expiration. The government will hold a 15% share in the company and appoint a Director to the board to safeguard the interests of the government and the community.
CS Mvurya affirmed that over 200 families who gave up their 4,329 parcels of land for the company’s establishment that they would be compensated. The investor, Fujax-Soy, will inject Sh4.8 billion to restart the operations.
Mining Act of 2016
The Fluorspar Mining Company is expected to adhere to the Mining Act of 2016, ensuring that 70% of royalties go to the National Treasury, 20% to the County Government, and 10% to the local community. As part of their Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR), the company will work to improve local schools, hospitals, and other essential services during their operational period.
Local employment is a priority, with the company committed to hiring qualified locals and awarding them tenders for supplying various goods. The PS for Mining, Elijah Mwangi, was instructed to ensure the establishment of a local testing laboratory for mineral sampling and testing.
Fujax’s UK Regional Director, Hendrick Ryst, pledged to collaborate with the local community in reviving the fluorspar company. Local leaders, including Governor Wisley Rotich, Senator William Kisang, Women Rep Jane Ngelechei, and Area MP Gideon Kimaiyo, expressed their support for the company, highlighting the employment opportunities and revenue increase for the county.
