Five Firms Target Gold and Strategic Minerals Across Five Counties

The Ministry of Mining, Blue Economy and Maritime Affairs has officially notified the public of five significant mineral license applications spanning Kilifi, Kakamega, Kwale, Samburu, and Kitui. The move signals a major push by the state to diversify Kenya’s mineral output—currently valued at KSh 25.5 billion—into high-value precious and base metals. Content In a formal gazette notice issued by Cabinet Secretary Hassan Joho, five companies have moved to secure mining and prospecting rights for a variety of high-value minerals. These applications come at a time when the government is intensifying efforts to formalize the sector and establish a national gold refinery in Kakamega to ensure local value addition. The following companies have filed their applications: Halal Mining Company Ltd: Seeking a 25.59 km² mining license in Kilifi for Lead, Zinc, and Barytes. Shanta Gold Kenya Ltd: Targeting 7.48 km² in Kakamega for Gold. This follows the company's recent feasibility study indicating high-grade deposits in the Liranda Corridor. Altona Mining Ltd: Filed two prospecting applications in Kwale covering a total of 187.5 km² for Heavy Mineral Sands, signaling continued interest in the coastal region following the exit of Base Titanium. Rotor Systems Ltd: Seeking 114.55 km² in Samburu targeting Gold deposits. Royal DFC Ltd: Applied for 53.92 km² in Kitui targeting Group E: Base and Rare Metals. The Cabinet Secretary has opened a 42-day window for the public or affected communities to submit any objections to these grants. Written objections should be addressed to the Ministry’s headquarters at the Works Building, Ngong Road, or submitted via the official mining portal. Why This Matters Economic Diversification: While industrial minerals like limestone dominate, these new applications focus on "strategic minerals" essential for electronics and green energy. Revenue Sharing: Under new regulations, 10% of royalties will be disbursed directly to host communities, ensuring they benefit from the "resource wealth" under their land. Value Addition: The government’s plan for a central refinery in Kakamega aims to shift Kenya from a raw mineral exporter to a processed-goods producer. Opportunity Sector Geological Surveys, Mining Equipment Supply, Environmental Consultancy (EIA), Community Development Services, Trade Finance. Follow @MotoSeenAfrica for more updates on business, trade, investments, opportunities and economic growth across Africa. Moto Seen Africa — Africa’s View, Seen Clearly. #KenyaMining #HassanJoho #ShantaGold #MineralRights #GoldMining #StrategicMinerals #KenyaBusiness #MotoSeenAfrica