Kenya revokes mining licenses in Turkana County

The government of Kenya has revoked over 40 mining licenses in Turkana County. This action, led by Cabinet Secretary Salim Mvurya of the Ministry of Mining, Blue Economy, and Maritime Affairs, aims to enforce stricter adherence to safety and procedural standards among investors.

Mvurya emphasized that the intervention was necessary to ensure that mining activities met established safety standards. To support small-scale and artisanal miners, the government has established and trained an artisanal mining committee in Turkana, which will be responsible for issuing permits for small-scale mining and quarry operations. This initiative aims to formalize and regulate artisanal mining, providing a framework for safer and more productive mining practices.

Regulatory framework

The collaboration between the national and county governments is a key aspect of this new regulatory framework. Mvurya highlighted plans to organize and register more artisanal miners into cooperative societies, which will facilitate their training and access to funding. This cooperative model is intended to integrate small-scale miners into the formal economy, ensuring they can operate safely and sustainably.

The decision to revoke licenses and require reapplication was also driven by the need to address expired licenses and those obtained through improper procedures. This move underscores the government’s commitment to transparency and proper regulatory oversight in the mining sector.

Turkana’s mineral wealth, including gemstones, industrial minerals, and gold deposits, presents significant economic potential. By ensuring that mining activities are conducted safely and legally, the government aims to harness these resources to benefit the country and improve local livelihoods.

In line with these reforms, Interior Cabinet Secretary Kithure Kindiki has also mandated the closure of all illegal artisanal mining sites nationwide. This directive reinforces the government’s stance on ensuring that all mining activities comply with public safety and environmental standards.