By: TNX

Senior engineers in Kenya have raised significant concerns over the economic model of the country's mining sector, arguing that it is forfeiting substantial value by exporting raw, unprocessed minerals. Speaking at an industry event, Institution of Engineers of Kenya (IEK) President Shammah Kiteme criticized the prevailing system where multinational companies extract resources in Kenya, process them overseas, and remit limited financial benefits.

Kiteme highlighted that Kenya currently earns approximately 4% in royalties from mining operations, a figure he stated is further diminished when shared among stakeholders. He questioned the sustainability of a framework where the bulk of profits benefit foreign shareholders, asking, "What are you doing when our gold benefits shareholders seated in London, as we only take a share of taxes and royalties?"

The engineers argue that Kenya possesses the necessary human capital and technical expertise to mine and process minerals locally. Kiteme cited underutilized resources like the Mui Basin coal deposits, estimated to be worth about KES 4 trillion, as evidence of missed opportunities that could finance development without increasing public debt. He urged his peers to move beyond technical roles and actively advocate for policy reforms to promote domestic value addition, job creation, and greater economic sovereignty.