Kakamega's Gold Mine: A Game-Changer for Western Kenya

The Kenyan government has allocated Sh5.8 billion for the construction of the Kakamega Gold Refinery, enabling the region to mine, process, and value-add gold locally. This investment aims to boost the county's economy, with supporting infrastructure such as a Sh10 billion power transmission line and a granite factory also in progress. The four-day Kakamega International Investment Conference highlighted the government's commitment to economic development in the county.

Is Kakamega's Gold Mine a Game-Changer for Western Kenya?

The government has allocated a sizable investment of Sh5.8 billion toward the construction of the long-awaited Kakamega Gold Refinery in Ikolomani Constituency. Speaking at the inaugural Kakamega International Investment Conference, President William Ruto declared that construction activities at the refinery plant will commence shortly.

Economic Boost for Kakamega

This strategic investment aims to transform Kakamega's mining industry by enabling local extraction and processing of precious minerals. President Ruto emphasized the county's vision to capture value from its resources before selling them on the market.

Gold Deposits Valued at Sh171 Billion

The gold deposits in Kakamega's Lirhanda corridor are estimated to hold a whopping 1.31 million ounces, with an estimated value of Sh171 billion. This discovery was made by Acacia Mining, a British exploration company.

Kakamega-Busia Gold Belt

Gold exploration in Kakamega has also yielded significant findings. Shanta Gold, a gold mining and exploration company operating in East Africa, has identified gold deposits worth approximately $2 billion along the Kakamega-Busia gold belt, spanning over 1,160 square kilometers.

Partnerships and Investments

The construction of the refinery has garnered support from high-ranking government officials, including Prime Cabinet Secretary Musalia Mudavadi, Trade Cabinet Secretary Rebecca Miano, and Mining Cabinet Secretary Salim Mvurya. Governor Fernandes Barasa of Kakamega played a pivotal role as host.

Vihiga Granite Factory

In addition, the government has allocated Sh2.5 billion for the completion and equipping of the Vihiga granite factory. This project is anticipated to create over 1,000 direct jobs and an additional 3,000 indirect jobs through the crushing of granite stones.

Power Transmission Line

To attract investors to Kakamega, the government is constructing a Sh10 billion power transmission line from Kibos in Kisumu to Kakamega. This infrastructure will bolster the county's energy supply, stabilizing it for both local and regional development.

Accelerated Development

Mudavadi emphasized the importance of counties leveraging investments to enhance the well-being of their constituents. He called for a shift from reliance on financial aid to self-sufficiency through productive ventures.

Harnessing Untapped Potential

Miano highlighted the government's commitment to unlocking the economic potential of counties by promoting them as investment destinations. Despite possessing abundant natural resources, Western Kenya has historically lagged in attracting investments.

Time for Collaboration

To pave the way for sustained economic growth, political leaders at both national and county levels must collaborate to create supportive legislation. Mudavadi expressed concern that Western Kenya has only one tea factory operated by the Kenya Tea Development Authority, despite having ample rainfall similar to neighboring counties with multiple factories.

Conclusion

The Kakamega Gold Refinery and other initiatives undertaken by the government represent a significant step toward developing Kakamega as an economic hub. By harnessing its mineral wealth and creating an investment-friendly environment, the county aims to transform its economy and improve the lives of its residents.