Sifuna demands transparency over Mrima Hills mining project, questions benefits to Kwale residents

NAIROBI, Kenya – Edwin Sifuna, leader of the Linda Mwananchi Movement, has called for complete transparency regarding the planning of the Mrima Hills mining project in Kwale County. Sifuna argues that residents should be fully informed about the mining agreements and contracts, and how the benefits will be shared. He points out that Base Titanium, which operated in the region for over a decade, failed to deliver promised project funds to the local community.

Sifuna questions the agreements between the government and potential investors, emphasizing that residents have the right to know the terms of the proposed arrangements. The project, which involves extracting niobium and rare earth minerals, has attracted international mining companies, with five bidders submitting proposals on October 21, 2026.

However, Sifuna is concerned that the government has not adequately addressed residents' concerns over land ownership, compensation, and revenue-sharing. He also highlights the issue of conflicting land titles in the area and warns that residents could lose their land without proper compensation. Sifuna's criticisms come in light of past mining operations in Kwale, where Base Titanium promised community development but did not fulfill its commitments. He emphasizes that the interests of residents should take precedence over those of investors.