The Ministry of Mining, Blue Economy, and Maritime Affairs held a significant consultative meeting on January 11, 2025, at the Voi Gemstone Centre in Taita Taveta County, aimed at addressing challenges in the local mining industry. The meeting brought together miners, dealers, industry stakeholders, and traders to discuss ways to streamline the sector and enhance the region’s economic contribution, particularly in gemstone mining.
Principal Secretary for the State Department of Mining, Elijah Mwangi, reiterated the government’s commitment to ensuring that Taita Taveta’s vast mineral resources benefit local communities, miners, and the broader economy. He acknowledged challenges at the Voi Gemstone Value Addition Centre, which, despite being commissioned by President William Ruto in 2023, has not been fully utilized due to leadership and operational issues. Mwangi emphasized the importance of resolving these challenges through stakeholder engagement and announced a 30-day deadline for elections to ensure inclusive leadership at the centre.
The Ministry has also deployed geologists, mining engineers, and explosives inspectors in the county to assist artisanal miners in adopting safe and productive mining practices. Mwangi noted that the county now has five mining inspectors, up from three, to improve service delivery.
Stakeholders raised concerns about licensing delays, a shortage of trained gemologists, and limited market access. Alice Muthama, a gemstone sector representative, called for the deployment of more skilled professionals to support miners and improve efficiency. Voi MP Abdi Chome and Deputy Governor Christine Kilalo echoed these concerns, stressing the need for clarity on strategic minerals and a more inclusive approach to leadership at the gemstone centre.
Director of Mining Gregory Kituku emphasized the government’s focus on regulation and value addition to ensure fair pricing and transparency in the sector. He also highlighted the role of the newly established Mining Police Unit in curbing illegal activities.
With ongoing collaboration, the Ministry aims to transform Taita Taveta into a global gemstone hub, benefiting both the local community and the broader economy.
