Joho: Tana River’s Untapped Mineral Wealth Key to Shared Prosperit
By Amina Abdalla/County Reporter
TANA RIVER, KENYA — Cabinet Secretary for Mining, Blue Economy and Maritime Affairs, Hassan Joho, has reaffirmed the government’s commitment to unlocking Tana River County’s vast but untapped mineral potential in a responsible and community-centered manner.
Speaking during a sensitization forum on mineral development in Tana River County, CS Joho emphasized that mineral exploitation must directly benefit local communities, strengthen the county economy, and contribute meaningfully to national prosperity.
“Tana River is one of the counties that holds immense untapped mineral potential. We are committed to unlocking these resources responsibly, ensuring that the benefits flow first to the local communities,” said Joho.
He noted that as Kenya’s mining sector continues to expand, the government is determined to build a model anchored on transparency, sustainability, and shared prosperity.
Joint Roadmap for Mineral Development
The CS held a high-level engagement with the Tana River County Executive Committee led by Governor Dhadho Godhana, alongside Members of the County Assembly. The meeting mapped out a clear roadmap for mineral resource development in the county.
Joho made it clear that bureaucracy and unnecessary delays would not be allowed to stall progress.
“We have made a firm commitment not to allow procrastination or bureaucracy to derail the responsible development of Tana River’s mineral resources,” he stated.
The leaders also resolved to jointly combat misinformation that could hinder sustainable mineral development initiatives.
Strengthening Institutional Frameworks
The CS commended Governor Godhana for establishing the Tana River Investment and Development Corporation, describing it as a strategic vehicle to anchor investment, enhance accountability, and accelerate sustainable mineral growth.
“I am confident that this institution will serve as a strong pillar in driving collaborative efforts and ensuring mineral development benefits the people of Tana River,” Joho added.
Technical Briefing on Mineral Potential
Mining Principal Secretary Mr. Harry Kimtai delivered a comprehensive technical presentation detailing the county’s mineral resource potential and outlining pathways for responsible exploitation.
Also present at the forum were Principal Secretaries PS Betsy Njagi (Blue Economy) and Mr. Aden Millah (Maritime Affairs), alongside senior officials from the State Department for Mining, including Secretary Administration Mr. David Onyancha, Secretary Mines Mr. Thomas Mutwiwa, and Secretary Geological Survey Mr. Enoch Kipseba.
The engagement signals a renewed push by the Ministry of Mining, Blue Economy and Maritime Affairs to position Tana River as a key contributor to Kenya’s growing extractive sector, while ensuring local communities remain at the center of development.
