Nairobi: Artisans in the soapstone industry in Tabaka ward, Kisii County have appealed to the government to craft a policy to guide the rock mining process and improve mining standards in a bid to boost production. Speaking at Nyabigege shopping centre in the area, the artisans also urged the government to provide modern machinery to enable them to harvest the rock in bulk and improve the quality of the artefacts, thereby boosting the carving business.
According to Kenya News Agency, one of the artisans, Moses Nyamosi, highlighted that modern machinery is safe to use, especially during the rainy seasons, and could help mine enough stock of carving stones for a steady supply of artefacts throughout the year. Nyamosi noted that quality products will ensure artisans get better earnings and create job opportunities for more youth in the industry, thus mitigating the unemployment rate among young people. He added that without the advanced machinery, there will be stagnation in the industry and low earnings, translating to poor livelihoods.
Jane Kemunto noted that the soapstone industry has enabled her to provide for her family, especially with the reduction of menial jobs like farming due to hard economic times. She pointed out that support from the government will ensure the low business seasons are reduced to enable more women to venture into the business.
Another artisan, Joseph Nyatike, emphasized that improved clientele will grow the local economy by offering employment and boosting opportunities in other related sectors in the area. Nyatike said that improving the industry will complement the government's efforts towards equipping learners with competency-based skills for self-employment.
A renowned soapstone dealer in the area, Daniel Apepo, noted that soapstone is a rare stone found in Canada, India, Zimbabwe, and Kenya, with the best quality being found in Kisii. Apepo said the rare stone, if utilised well, can enrich the community and appealed for more sensitisation forums so that the locals can appreciate and preserve the mineral for generational use. He welcomed the local community to attend an upcoming soapstone exhibition slated for 20th-27th December at Nyabigege shopping centre to appreciate its many coloration forms, including white, green, yellow, and black, among others.
Recently, the Kisii County Assembly passed the 2025 Finance Bill, where they increased the flat-rate levy on raw soapstone from Sh. 20,000 to Sh. 50,000, in a bid to cushion local miners.