The Government recognizes that the mining sector has potential to contribute significantly to the country's economic development. Currently, the sector contributes 0.8 percent to gross domestic product (GDP) per annum. The contribution to GDP is expected to increase to three (3) percent by 2017 and ten (10) percent by 2030 according to the Medium Term Plan (MTP) II (2013-2017). This will contribute to the targeted ten (10) percent annual growth envisaged in the Vision 2030 that will propel the country into a newly industrializing nation.
Given the potential of the mining sector, the Ministry of Mining has prepared a comprehensive policy framework to strengthen the regulation and coordination of the sector. The Mining and Minerals Policy paves way for the preparation of a new Mining Bill that will repeal Mining Act Cap 306, The Diamond Industry Protection Act Cap 310 and The Trading in Unwrought Precious Metals Act Cap 309 and provide a more progressive and comprehensive Mining Act.
The development of this Policy was done in a consultative manner with input from the Kenya Chamber of Mines, mining companies, academic and research institutions, development partners, members of the Parliamentary Committee on Environment and Natural Resources, civil society, representatives of mining communities and the general public. The Policy therefore represents the aspirations of key stakeholders in the mining sector and full implementation of the Policy will enable the realization of sustainable mineral exploration and development.
Hon. Dan Kazungu
CABINET SECRETARY