Prime Cabinet Secretary Musalia Mudavadi has announced the government's intention to partner with new foreign companies to mine the country's rare earth minerals.
Speaking on Wednesday, December 3, during a meeting in the United States, the CS highlighted Kenya’s commitment to partnering with reputable mining firms to explore the country's full potential.
Mudavadi, who met the Australian Ambassador to the United States, Kevin Rudd, explained that the foreign firm must have experience, expertise, and financial strength to mine minerals.
According to the Foreign Affairs CS, the foreign company would be responsible for supporting and training Kenyan teams to extract the resources safely and in a way that uplifts local communities.
He specifically pointed out the mineral-rich, sacred Mrima Hills in Kwale County, emphasising the government's intention to hire an international company to mine rare earths.
"With significant rare earth deposits in this coastal region, Kenya is determined to work only with environmentally conscious companies that go beyond profit," Mudavadi reiterated.
He went on to add, "The company must adopt global best practices and ensure full land restoration once mining activities conclude."
During the meeting, Ambassador Rudd declared Australia's intention to mine rare earths from Mrima Hills, reiterating the country's readiness to partner with President William Ruto's administration.
Rudd reaffirmed that Australian firms have a strong global reputation, guided by strict national standards, over a century of mining experience and a proven record of community empowerment.
Mrima Hills is considered one of the world's largest rare earth element deposits, particularly rich in monazite and silicate gangue, which are used in modern high-tech and green-energy applications.
They are used in making electrical appliances such as mobile phones, computer monitors, electric vehicle motors and wind turbines.
The Hill is covered by a vast forest and covers 390 acres and is located near the Indian Ocean coastline. The piece of land is currently isolated after locals were evicted from the hill.
