Mining Cabinet Secretary Salim Mvurya has revealed the discovery of coltan deposits in six Kenyan counties. This mineral is a crucial component in the production of phones and other technological gadgets, positioning Kenya as a potential game-changer in the global electronics market.

Mvurya stated, “This is a significant discovery that will enable the country to manufacture cheap phones and supply materials to the world.” The discovery opens the door to President William Ruto’s promise of affordable phones for as little as Ksh5,000.

The Mining Principal Secretary Elijah Mwangi emphasized the strategic importance of this find, stating, “This follows the completion of Nation Wide Airborne Geophysical Survey that identified over 970 minerals occurrences across the country.”

During a visit to Embu, CS Mvurya personally inspected the mining zone in Ntharawe, Kiritiri Mbeere South, where substantial deposits of gemstones and coltan were uncovered. He interacted with artisanal miners under the Mbeere Artisanal Miners Cooperative Society, demonstrating the potential for local economic growth.

Embu Governor Cecily Mbarire expressed her commitment to collaborate with the national government to empower artisanal miners, stating, “I am looking forward to a progressive report that will attract investors and investments that will greatly improve the socio-economic lives of the communities.”

In response to the discovery, a team of 23 from the State Department for Mining will remain in the area to assess the quality and quantity of the minerals, marking a pivotal moment in Kenya’s mining industry.