Kenya Confirms Major Gold Discovery in Kakamega Worth Ksh680 Billion

Kenya has confirmed a major gold discovery in Kakamega, with deposits in the Lirhanda Corridor estimated to be worth about Ksh680 billion, according to Mining Cabinet Secretary Ali Hassan Joho.

The announcement marks a significant step for Kenya’s mining industry, following extensive exploration and drilling across Kakamega and Vihiga counties. A British mining company has identified the main site and plans to invest Ksh26.8 billion to develop both an underground mine and a processing plant. 

If implemented, the venture will become Kenya’s first large-scale underground gold mining operation, moving the sector from small-scale artisanal mining to industrial production. Mr Joho said the project’s revenues will be distributed across different levels of government and local communities. 

The plan includes royalties set at three per cent of the gross value, a five per cent export levy, and a one per cent direct share for the community. The government will also hold a 10 per cent stake on a free-carrying basis. He added that the project is expected to generate employment, provide training opportunities, and improve local infrastructure.

Responding to concerns about foreign involvement, Mr Joho explained that the depth of the deposit, over one kilometre below the surface, requires specialised technology and expertise not yet available in Kenya. He said the foreign partnership was therefore necessary to ensure efficient and safe extraction.

He also assured artisanal miners that specific zones would remain open for their work and that any resettlement of communities would follow due process, with full compensation provided.