Africa is rich in minerals and natural resources, yet for decades foreign companies have extracted this wealth, shipped it abroad and created much of the value elsewhere. Host countries are often left with limited revenues, few lasting jobs and the environmental scars of extraction.
Kenya must avoid repeating this pattern. Its constitution recognises natural resources as belonging to the people, while the Mining Act provides for sharing mining revenues with national government, counties and communities. These rights must translate into tangible benefits for Kenyans, particularly communities living alongside mining operations.
Foreign mining companies should therefore be required to promote local processing, create decent jobs, transfer technology and give Kenyan businesses meaningful opportunities in procurement and supply chains.
Community benefits must go beyond token CSR. The lawful community and county shares of mining revenues must reach beneficiaries transparently and on time, while mining agreements should require measurable investment in water, healthcare, schools, roads and skills development.
But accountability must begin with government. Officials negotiating mining agreements must secure a fair return, disclose key obligations and ensure compliance. Parliament and regulators must provide effective oversight.
Environmental protection must also be non-negotiable, with companies funding rehabilitation of damaged land and ecosystems.
Kenya should welcome responsible investment, but its mineral wealth must not be exported as raw value. The resources belong to Kenyans; the benefits must be visible in Kenya.
