Kajiado Senator Samuel Seki has demanded the inclusion of the Magadi community in discussions over new investors expected to take over soda ash mining following the exit of Tata Chemicals.

🇰🇪 Breaking It Down

Speaking during a thanksgiving ceremony in Kajiado South, Seki said he supported reforms in Kenya’s mining sector but insisted that any new arrangement must guarantee tangible benefits for the local community.

Seki said residents must have a seat at the table as the government prepares to reopen the Magadi mining contract, warning that the community should not be sidelined in decisions concerning its land and natural resources.

“The new arrangements must address the interests of the residents who have lived alongside these mining operations and ensure that they benefit directly from the resources extracted from their area,” the Senator said.

📌 What You Need to Know

The remarks come days after Ruto ordered Tata Chemicals to leave Magadi and as the government moves towards a fresh bidding process, setting the stage for a new chapter in the long-running soda ash mining operations in the area.

Ruto confirmed that the government will re-advertise the Magadi mining contract and allow several companies to bid for the rights previously held by Tata Chemicals.

Ruto said the government could allow as many as 10 companies to apply for mining rights in Magadi, arguing that the area has enough mineral resources to sustain several investors.

The President also said companies awarded the new contracts would be required to process minerals locally, including establishing glass and chemical factories in Kenya rather than exporting raw materials for processing elsewhere.

Senator Seki called for any agreements with new investors to guarantee access to essential services and economic opportunities, including water, healthcare, education and employment for local youth.

He also demanded a fair share of royalties for the community, arguing that residents should not watch from the sidelines as companies and the government negotiate new mining arrangements.

📰 Source: Kenyans.co.ke