Kenya Opens Mining Goldmine: Ruto Launches MICE 2026 as Govt Bans Raw Mineral Exports
By Jeff Kizzilah/ Digital Editor
Kenya has officially signaled a new era in its extractives sector following the launch of the Kenya Mining Investment Conference and Expo (MICE) 2026, presided over by President .
The high-level global forum brings together investors, policymakers, and industry players, with the government positioning Kenya as a prime, secure, and investment-ready destination for mining.
Mining Cabinet Secretary emphasized that Kenya has taken deliberate steps to de-risk the sector, making it more attractive to both local and international investors.
“We have undertaken a comprehensive aerial geophysical survey, complemented by ground-truthing, to accurately determine the quality and quantity of our mineral resources. This ensures investors have access to reliable, data-driven insights,” said Joho.
The CS noted that the government has also heavily invested in critical infrastructure to support the sector, including expanded road networks, the , and modern port facilities, all aimed at enhancing efficiency in logistics and connectivity.
According to Joho, these developments go beyond providing a stable legal and regulatory environment—they demonstrate Kenya’s readiness to unlock the full economic potential of its mining industry.
In a major policy shift aligned with the President’s directive, the government announced a firm commitment to value addition, declaring an end to the export of raw minerals.
“We are moving decisively toward beneficiation. Minerals extracted in Kenya must contribute to local industries, job creation, and economic growth. The era of exporting raw materials is coming to an end,” Joho stated.
The is expected to catalyze partnerships, attract capital, and position Kenya as a leading mining hub in Africa.
With strengthened regulatory frameworks, improved infrastructure, and a clear value-addition agenda, Kenya is now firmly placing itself at the center of global mining investment conversations.
