Elgeyo Marakwet CBOs Receive Funding to Spur Micro-Economic GrowthKenya’s Fluorspar Mining Sector to Receive Sh4.8 Billion Investment

ELGEYO MARAKWET, Kenya — Community-based organizations (CBOs) in Elgeyo Marakwet County have received a significant financial boost, with Sh2,077,615 allocated to support micro-economic activities aimed at promoting sustainable development in the region.

According to Kenya News Agency, the County Woman Representative, the funding is expected to have a substantial positive impact on local groups, including the Asis Dancers CBO, which was among the attendees during the funds’ disbursement.

The financial support was handed out in a ceremony that doubled as a leadership training session organized by the Kenya Women Parliamentary Association (KEWOPA), benefiting over 70 women. Ngelechei highlighted the dual benefits of the event, emphasizing not only the financial aid but also the importance of leadership skills and community engagement tools provided through the training. She encouraged the recipients to use the funds wisely to expand their initiatives and increase their socio-economic contributions.

The training, sponsored by KEWOPA, was designed to equip the beneficiaries with skills for managing their finances effectively and enhancing their business operations. Anne Koech, a beneficiary of the funds and the training, shared her optimism about the positive impact the support and knowledge would have on managing her business.

In addition to the funding, two women’s self-help groups, Upendo Women Self-Help Group and Ebenezer Women Self-Help Group from Katalel, were provided with essential equipment to facilitate their economic activities. Upendo received a posho mill, and Ebenezer was given a milk freezer, both contributions from Ngelechei aimed at enhancing their economic capabilities.

Phanice Cherotich from Upendo Women Self Help Group expressed her appreciation for the support, anticipating an increase in income that would improve the living standards of their community members.

ELGEYO MARAKWET, Kenya – The mining sector in Kenya is set for a significant uplift with an investment of over Sh4.8 billion aimed at reviving fluorspar mining operations in Kimwarer, Elgeyo Marakwet County. This move comes after a period of stagnation lasting seven years, marking a pivotal moment for the local industry and community.

According to Kenya News Agency, the Principal Secretary of the State Department for Mining, negotiations with a strategic investor have been finalized, setting the stage for the resurgence of fluorspar mining in the area. Mwangi described the revival as a key component of the department’s strategy to attract investment into Kenya’s rich mineral sector, emphasizing the potential for revenue generation and job creation in both national and county governments.

The investor’s commitment extends beyond mining operations, with plans to participate in community development programs under the guidelines of the Community Development Agreement Committee (CDAC), as mandated by the Mining Act 2016. This approach aims to ensure that the benefits of mining activities are shared with the local community, addressing social and economic needs.

Local residents and officials have welcomed the project, viewing it as a critical driver for economic development and job creation in Elgeyo Marakwet County. Thomas Maiyo, the County Executive Committee Member in charge of Lands, Physical Planning, Housing, and Urban Development, highlighted the project’s potential to spur growth and improve living standards in the region. He assured the investor of the county’s support in overcoming any operational challenges and emphasized the importance of swift action to commence mining activities.

The fluorspar mining revival is expected to alleviate the economic uncertainty faced by the residents of Kimwarer villages since the cessation of mining operations in 2016, attributed to a decline in global demand and fluorspar prices. With proven reserves indicating a lifespan of 40 years for the mining operation, the project promises long-term benefits for the area, including the production of materials critical to various industries, such as refrigerants and ceramics.

The initiative also addresses concerns related to land compensation and ownership, with county leaders committed to resolving these issues in collaboration with the investor and community stakeholders. The project’s success is seen as a model for balancing economic development with community welfare and environmental stewardship.

President William Ruto has expressed support for the project, citing its potential to transform the economic landscape of the region. His administration is focused on facilitating the project’s launch while ensuring that community concerns are addressed, reinforcing the government’s commitment to sustainable and inclusive development.