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Currently mining contributes to about 1 per cent of GDP but Kazungu hopes to raise this to 10 per cent by 2030/FILE

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Kenya’s planned mineral survey to start in December

Currently mining contributes to about 1 per cent of GDP but Kazungu hopes to raise this to 10 per cent by 2030/FILE

Currently mining contributes to about 1 per cent of GDP but Kazungu hopes to raise this to 10 per cent by 2030/FILE

NAIROBI, Kenya, Dec 26 – Mining Cabinet Secretary Dan Kazungu says the planned mineral survey throughout the country will begin in December.

Kazungu says this will be a ‘Jamhuri Day’ gift to the country.

The map out of mineral sites with aim of identifying all minerals is to obtain geophysical data that will form the basis for a review of the country’s geology and mineral resources and their distribution.

He says a 16 member team of Kenya’s top geologists are on a search of an international consultant who will guide the team in search for a contractor who will do the countrywide aerial survey.

“Already 17 international firms have applied we are still vetting them by December we will launch the project,” he added.

The government will spend Sh3 billion for the project.

“Mining is set to become the bedrock for Kenya’s planned industrialization programme,” he said.

Currently mining contributes to about 1 per cent of GDP but Kazungu hopes to raise this to 10 per cent by 2030.

“This is why we are having the Kenya Mining Forum on Wednesday and Thursday so as to discuss the mining opportunities in the country,” he explained.

Over 40 mining companies from different parts of Africa are expected to attend the forum that will have about 200 participants.

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Deals of unknown amount are expected to be signed during the forum.

Kazungu says the forum comes at an opportune time as the sector implements the new Mining Act that is expected to revolutionize the sector as a huge contributor to the GDP.

“The move is expected to attract investors and make Kenya a regional hub for mining as it is for financial services,” he added.

The new Mining Act 2016 is expected to streamline the country’s mining sector and open the gates for its development as well as ensure environmental conservation.

The Act has been termed as one of the most progressive mining laws in the continent.

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