Kenya seeks ethical, experienced mining partners to unlock Kwale’s rare earth potential

Speaking on Wednesday at the Australian Embassy in Washington, D.C, Prime Secretary Musalia Mudavadi reiterated the government’s determination to work only with reputable companies that uphold environmental and social standards while ensuring full land rehabilitation after mining activities.  

“Kenya is actively seeking investors with the experience, expertise, and financial strength to responsibly mine our rare earth minerals and unlock their full national value,” Mudavadi stated.   

“With significant rare earth deposits in this coastal region, Kenya is determined to work only with environmentally conscious companies that go beyond profit, adopt global best practices, and ensure full land restoration once mining activities conclude,” he added.

Mrima Hill is a 390-acre coastal forest rich in rare earth minerals essential for high-tech manufacturing and low-carbon industries, and is estimated to be worth Ksh. 8.1 trillion (USD 62.4 billion).

Experts note that these minerals are critical in the production of electric vehicles, renewable energy systems, smartphones, and other advanced technologies, making the site one of Kenya’s most valuable untapped natural resources.

During the meeting with Australia’s Ambassador to the United States, Kevin Rudd, Mudavadi highlighted the importance of partnering with a mining firm that can transfer skills, build local capacity, and ensure safe and sustainable extraction of the minerals.

“I underscored Kenya’s commitment to partnering with reputable mining firms that can support and train our teams to extract these resources safely, sustainably, and in a way that uplifts local communities, especially in Mrima Hills,” PS said.

Ambassador Rudd welcomed Kenya’s approach, noting that Australian mining firms bring over a century of mining experience and have established a long-standing reputation for community empowerment.

“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,” Rudd said.