Kakamega set for gold boom as state moves to formalise mining, build refinery

The government has intensified efforts to formalise gold mining in Kakamega, combining a repeat mapping exercise of artisanal and small-scale miners with plans to establish a refinery.

Mining PS Harry Kimtai said the refinery will be developed through a public-private partnership, positioning the county as a strategic hub for gold development while addressing longstanding challenges in licensing, royalty collection and community engagement.

He said previous mapping exercises in Ikolomani constituency had failed to achieve inclusivity, prompting the formation of an expanded 15-member team to conduct a repeat survey and ensure all miners are formally registered.

The initiative will allow artisanal miners to coexist with commercial operations under legal frameworks, enabling proper oversight, environmental protection and safe working conditions.

Officers from the Ministry of Mining will return within weeks to complete licensing and formal registration.

The government has also instituted the Kakamega County Mining Committee, drawing members from the governor’s office, local community leaders, artisanal miners and the county mining officer as secretary.

The team will oversee compliance, coordinate public participation and facilitate consultations to rebuild trust after past clashes between the community and police that resulted in deaths, injuries and property damage.

Kimtai emphasised mining will only commence once the host community provides consent, with public hearings to address petitions on human rights, cultural heritage, environmental protection and economic grievances.

Currently, Kakamega receives negligible royalties from gold mining, with the county’s 20 per cent share amounting to just Sh12,000, despite being a major gold-producing region.

Kimtai said formalisation and licensing are critical to maximising revenue for the county and national government while curbing illegal mining and smuggling.

Shanta Gold Kenya has assured no public institutions will be displaced and assessments for compensation will prioritise the Isulu area, where the company plans its plant and operational offices.

The planned refinery represents a landmark step in local value addition, expected to create employment, enhance transparency and strengthen regulatory oversight.

By integrating artisanal miners into the formal system, the government aims to improve safety, environmental compliance, and revenue collection, unlocking Kakamega’s economic potential while positioning it as a model for sustainable gold development nationwide.