Ministry moves to unlock Tana River’s vast mineral wealth

BY SADIK HASSAN-KNA

Efforts are underway to accelerate large-scale mineral development in Tana River County as the government seeks to spur regional growth and enhance the country’s Sovereign Wealth Fund.

The Government has identified Tana River County as hosting significant manganese deposits, particularly within the Mid-Galana geological zone.

Geological mapping and field investigations have confirmed structurally controlled manganese mineralization associated with fault systems in the Lali Hill area.

In addition to manganese, the county also hosts iron mineralization, industrial and construction minerals, and sedimentary basin resources.

These occurrences position Tana River as an emerging metallic mineral hub within the region.  

The confirmed manganese deposits will undergo further detailed exploration to determine the full size and economic value of the resource.

Manganese is mainly used to strengthen steel and remove impurities, and is also a key component in modern lithium-ion batteries used in smartphones and tablets.

During a sensitization meeting on mineral development in Tana River held in Mombasa, Cabinet Secretary (CS) for Mining Hassan Joho said that the county’s vast mineral wealth remains largely untapped.

The meeting brought together the executive and legislative arms of the County Assembly, led by Governor Dhadho Godhana and Speaker Osman Galole respectively.

“We have earmarked Tana River as a great county with immense potential. If we unlock mining, you will not complain about energy and water. If we fail to take certain steps today, we will blame ourselves tomorrow. If we start right, we will get it right,” said Joho.

He called for concerted efforts among local communities, the County Government and the Ministry to ensure sustainable exploitation of the minerals in a way that drives inclusive growth and industrial transformation.

The CS urged Coastal residents to shun myths and misconceptions surrounding mining, including claims about infertility, low libido and witchcraft.