Ruto says new Magadi mining contracts must deliver local value addition
Ruto said the contract for mining operations at Magadi will be advertised following the expiry of the existing arrangement with Tata Chemicals.
President William Ruto has announced that mining companies awarded contracts at Lake Magadi must set up processing and manufacturing facilities in Kenya to prevent the export of raw minerals without local value addition. Ruto emphasized that Kenya must stop exporting minerals and importing finished products, as this model deprives communities and the country of jobs, wealth, and industrial opportunities.
He stated that Kenyan minerals should create value at home, generate wealth for Kajiado, create jobs for young people, and stimulate local industries.
Following the expiry of the existing agreement with Tata Chemicals Ltd, the government will not renew the contract and will instead advertise mining operations at Magadi. Ruto criticized the nearly century-old arrangement, stating it was exploitative and failed to provide sufficient benefits to Kenyans, particularly residents of Kajiado.
He accused critics of opposing the termination of the Tata Chemicals arrangement of defending commercial interests that do not serve Kenya's best interests. Ruto highlighted Kenya's sovereignty and its ability to negotiate investment partnerships that align with national interests.
Furthermore, Ruto announced that 90 percent of the 240,000 acres of land appropriated for Magadi Soda mining will be returned to local communities. The government will expedite the issuance of title deeds to secure land ownership and unlock the economic potential of these lands. He emphasized his administration's commitment to equitable commercial relationships between Africa and international investors, urging Kenya to demand sovereign equality, justice, and fair relationships.
Written by urgent.news from Capital FM Kenya's reporting — not their text. Machine-written — may contain errors; check the original before relying on it.
