Kenya Chambers of Mines Chairman Calls for Urgent Reforms in Mining Sector

Nairobi, Kenya ,By Brenda Asugu

In a landmark address at the annual Kenya Chamber of Mines (KCM) conference, Chairman Dr. Kanyoro Patrick unveiled a bold vision for overhauling the country’s mining industry. Citing outdated policies and systemic inefficiencies, Dr. Kanyoro called for transformative reforms within six months to revitalize the sector and restore investor confidence.

PHOTO: Dr Patrick Kanyoro chairperson incharge of mines together with Thomas Mutuiywa, representing the PS State Department of mining during the Annual conference at the Boma Hotel

“We are shackled by a colonial relic of a framework that no longer serves the needs of our industry,” Dr. Kanyoro declared, urging the government to replace the Mining Act of 2016 with a new legal framework tailored to the demands of modern stakeholders. He emphasized the importance of designing policies that support, rather than hinder, miners

Dr. Kanyoro highlighted the plight of Artisanal and Small-Scale Miners (ASMs), who support nearly one million Kenyans. He called for their formalization and professionalization, stressing their potential to significantly boost the economy. He also criticized the Ministry of Mining for sidelining industry stakeholders, advocating for inclusivity and collaboration.

“Collaboration and inclusivity are not just ideal; they are necessary for meaningful progress,” he insisted.

The manipulation of the Open Cadastral System was another key issue raised. Dr. Kanyoro called for an independent audit covering 2020 to 2024 to address concerns and rebuild trust among investors. Additionally, he condemned the withholding of the airborne geological survey report, which he argued has created an unfair advantage for a select few while stifling broader industry growth

Dr. Kanyoro criticized several policies, including the Strategic Minerals Regulations of 2017, which have left miners unable to sell valuable stockpiles. He also warned that the proposed Mining Regulations of 2024, currently under judicial review, could stifle the industry’s growth.

“We cannot afford to implement regulations that alienate investors at such a critical time for the sector,” he stated.

Highlighting the demoralization of staff within the State Department of Mining, Dr. Kanyoro cautioned that this issue could undermine the ministry’s effectiveness and harm public confidence in the government. He emphasized the importance of a motivated workforce in driving industry progress.

Concluding his address, Dr. Kanyoro called for a shift toward public-centered service delivery, emphasizing that reforms could be achieved without additional funding from the National Treasury. He urged stakeholders to take an active role in shaping the industry's future

“Mining is our business, and our business is mining. Together, let us push for our rightful space and make change our currency,” he declared.

As KCM gears up for a pivotal year, the organization remains committed to driving reforms that could position Kenya’s mining sector as a cornerstone of economic growth, creating wealth and job opportunities for generations to come.

Comments

Post a Comment

Popular posts from this blog

Kenya Diaspora Alliance and KDA Welfare Association Host Impactful 4th Annual Social & Business Networking Event

Image
Nairobi, Kenya – The Kenya Diaspora Alliance (KDA) and the KDA Welfare Association (KWA) hosted the highly anticipated 4th Annual Kenya Diaspora/KWA Social & Business Networking Event on January 2nd, 2025, at the Bomas of Kenya in Nairobi. The event brought together Kenyan diaspora members from around the world, offering a platform to network, share experiences, and discuss how their collective efforts can advance both their personal interests and the development of Kenya. This year’s event attracted a diverse group of participants from various countries, including South Africa, the United States, France, the United Kingdom, Uganda, South Sudan, Rwanda, and Botswana. Local entrepreneurs and professionals also joined the diaspora, creating a vibrant environment focused on building connections and collaborations aimed at strengthening business ties and supporting the nation’s growth. Notable organizations such as ICEA Lion and Britam Asset Management were key partners at this year...
Read more

Inaugural International Religious Freedom Summit Africa Launches in Nairobi

Image
Religious Freedom as a Catalyst for Socioeconomic Development and Peacebuilding Nairobi, Kenya, Tuesday, 17 June:   Upon the kind invitation from the Chief Justice of Kenya Lady Justice Martha Koome who is the Chief Guest and host, the International Religious Freedom Summit has officially commenced in Nairobi, Kenya. This landmark 3-day event is organized by Pepperdine University and the Religious Freedom Institute, and hosted by the Global Peace Foundation. The summit aims to elevate religious freedom as a foundational pillar for peace, human dignity, and sustainable development across the African continent. Bringing together policymakers and religious leaders from across Africa, the summit underscores the urgent need to protect and promote religious freedom, which organizers highlighted as increasingly under threat across the region. H.E. Mrs. Bola Obasanjo, Co-Chair of the IRF Summit, emphasized that Africa requires greater investments of time and talent to adva...
Read more

New Generation Aspirants Unveil Youth-Led Roadmap for a New Kenya

Image
By James Nyaigoti Kenya’s emerging crop of youthful leaders has today  launched a bold political movement aimed at reimagining the country’s future through youth-led leadership, unity, and structural reform. Under the banner New Generation Aspirants (NGA), the diverse coalition of young political hopefuls from across the country presented a unified roadmap for national renewal and transformation ahead of the 2027 general elections. The movement, dubbed "The New Generation Aspirants Youth Led Roadmap for a New Kenya", drew hundreds of aspirants ranging from grassroots to presidential contenders. Central to the day’s activities was the signing of the Ufungamano Declaration a document committing the coalition to a just, inclusive, and people-centered leadership agenda. “This is our moment” Lavani Miller, co-convener of the NGA forum, delivered a passionate call to action: “We are tired of the status quo. We are tired of a government that continually sidelines its you...
Read more