Top Gold Mining Areas in Kenya | Major Sites, Production & Opportunities

Kenya has a long history of gold exploration and production, with small-scale artisanal miners operating alongside emerging large-scale projects. The country’s mineral-rich zones are primarily located in the western and southwestern regions, where geological formations such as the Migori Greenstone Belt and the Lirhanda Gold Belt host significant gold deposits. These areas have attracted both local and foreign investors seeking to tap into Kenya’s untapped mineral wealth.

Today, Kenya is transforming into a regional gold powerhouse, with major reserves located across the western and southwestern regions, underpinned by a clear legal framework and ambitious plans for value addition and modernization.

Brief History of Gold Mining in Kenya

Gold mining in Kenya has a rich and intriguing history that dates back nearly a century. The country’s gold story began in the 1930s during the British colonial era, when explorers discovered rich gold deposits in Kakamega and Migori.

Early Discoveries (1930s–1940s)

The first significant gold discovery was made in Kakamega’s Rosterman area around 1932, which led to the establishment of the Rosterman Gold Mine, Kenya’s first commercial gold mining operation. During this period, gold extraction was largely manual, relying on colonial prospectors and local laborers. The mine operated until 1952, producing an estimated 259,000 ounces of gold.

Post-Independence Decline (1960s–1980s)

After Kenya gained independence in 1963, large-scale mining declined due to the closure of colonial mines, lack of modern technology, and limited government investment. However, artisanal and small-scale miners continued panning for gold in rivers and old mine sites, especially in Migori, Kakamega, and Vihiga.

Modern Revival (1990s–Present)

In the 1990s, Kenya renewed efforts to revive its mining industry by introducing new mining policies and inviting foreign investors. Geological surveys revealed significant untapped reserves along the Lirhanda Corridor (Kakamega–Vihiga) and Migori Greenstone Belt.

Today, companies like Caracal Gold PLC (Kilimapesa Mine in Narok) and Shanta Gold (West Kenya Project) are leading modern exploration and production efforts. Kenya’s gold industry is now recognized as one of East Africa’s fastest-growing mining sectors, with increasing government support and rising export potential.

Top Gold Mining Areas in Kenya

Geographically, these zones form an arc of gold mineralization stretching from the Tanzanian border in the Southwest (Migori/Narok) northwards along the Lake Victoria basin to the Western Highlands (Kakamega/Vihiga). This corridor encompasses both large-scale mines and artisanal mining hubs, providing a clear picture of Kenya’s gold-rich regions.

1. Migori County

Migori, located near the Tanzanian border, is part of the Migori Greenstone Belt, which hosts numerous artisanal mining sites. Historically, Migori has been associated with exploration projects that span the belt, but current large-scale production is centered in Narok County (Kilimapesa Gold Mine).

Key Features:

• Predominantly artisanal gold mining along rivers and alluvial deposits.
• Small-scale projects supported by local cooperatives.
• Rich in alluvial gold, especially along the Masara, Kehancha, and Migori River areas.

Note: Kilimapesa Gold Mine’s initial exploration history touched parts of the Migori Belt, but active mining operations are located in Narok County.

2. Narok County

Narok County, in the Transmara Region, hosts Kilimapesa Gold Mine, Kenya’s largest operational gold mine.

Key Features:

• Large-scale production with modern mining methods.
• Produces ~1,500 ounces per month as of 2025.
• Located on the northern extension of the Migori Greenstone Belt.
• Attracts both foreign investment and industrial partnerships.

3. Kakamega & Vihiga Counties

These counties form part of the Lirhanda Gold Belt in the Western Highlands, north of Lake Victoria.

Key Features:

• Hosts Shanta Gold’s West Kenya Project, one of Kenya’s largest gold exploration projects.
• Mining here is a mix of artisanal and large-scale exploration.
• Known for high-grade gold veins in hard rock formations.

4. Turkana & West Pokot Counties

These northern counties are emerging gold exploration zones.

Key Features:

• Hosts promising gold deposits in remote areas such as Turkwel Hills and Chewoyet.
• Primarily targeted by small-scale miners and early-stage exploration companies.
• Infrastructure and access challenges limit large-scale operations but present future investment opportunities.

5. Nandi Hills

Located in western Kenya, Nandi Hills is known for small-scale and artisanal mining.

Key Features:

• Gold occurs in secondary alluvial deposits along streams and rivers.
• Mining is community-driven with cooperative oversight.
• Offers moderate production potential but is important for local employment and artisanal livelihoods.

Conceptual Map Visualization

• Southwest (Migori/Narok). Tanzanian border, high alluvial potential, Kilimapesa central in Narok.
• Western Highlands (Kakamega/Vihiga). Hard rock gold veins, major exploration projects.
• Northern Belt (Turkana/West Pokot). Emerging exploration and artisanal hubs.
• Western corridor (Nandi Hills). Small-scale, community mining.

 Major Gold Mining Companies in Kenya

Company Name	Headquarters / Origin	Primary Mining Area(s)	Key Projects / Mines			Type of Operation	Status (2025)
Caracal Gold PLC	United Kingdom	Narok County (Transmara Region)	Kilimapesa Gold Mine			Large-Scale Production	Active – Producing ~1,500 oz/month
Shanta Gold Limited	United Kingdom	Kakamega & Vihiga Counties (Lirhanda Corridor)	West Kenya Project			Exploration & Development	Advanced Stage Exploration
Goldplat PLC	United Kingdom / Kenya	Migori & Kakamega	Macalder Mine (Historical) & processing plants			Recovery & Processing	Operating / Expanding
Acacia Exploration Kenya Ltd (Formerly Barrick Gold Africa)	Canada / Tanzania	Western Kenya (Migori Belt)	Exploration Blocks			Exploration	Dormant – pending license renewal
Mayfox Mining Company Ltd	Kenya	Turkana, West Pokot, Narok	Turkwel Hills, Chewoyet, Lolgorian			Exploration & Artisanal Support	Active – Ongoing Surveys
Karebe Gold Mining Ltd	Kenya / Foreign Partnership	Nandi County	Chemase & Tinderet Mines			Small-Scale Commercial Mining	Active – Local Gold Producer
Mid Migori Mining Company Ltd	Kenya / UK Partnership	Migori County	Masara, Kehancha, Macalder			Exploration (Gold & Base Metals)	Active – Exploration License
Abba Mining Company Ltd	Kenya	Kakamega & Vihiga	Lirhanda Corridor sites			Small-Scale & Exploration	Active – Local License Holder
Aurora Mining Company Ltd	Kenya	Migori & Narok	Macalder South Project			Exploration	Early Exploration Stage
Kilima Gold Company Ltd	Kenya	Turkana & West Pokot	Lodwar Basin			Artisanal Coordination / Exploration	Active – Small-Scale Focus

Summary Insights

• Caracal Gold PLC remains Kenya’s only fully operational large-scale gold producer through its Kilimapesa Mine in Narok.
• Shanta Gold is leading Kenya’s modern exploration boom with its West Kenya Project, which could become the country’s largest gold mine by 2026.
• Several local companies (like Mayfox, Karebe, and Abba Mining) are expanding into exploration and small-scale mechanized mining, helping decentralize Kenya’s gold production.

Kenya Gold Production

Current Annual Production: ~35,000–50,000 ounces per year

This represents combined output from artisanal, small-scale, and large-scale mining, mainly in Kakamega, Migori, Narok, and Turkana counties.

Gold Production & Export Statistics (2020–2025)

Year	Estimated Gold Production (oz)	Export Volume (oz)	Remarks
2020	30,000	18,500	Mostly artisanal mining; low formal exports
2021	32,500	20,000	Early formalization of artisanal miners
2022	36,000	22,500	Kilimapesa Mine expansion starts
2023	38,500	25,000	Increased exports due to licensing compliance
2024	42,000	28,000	Shanta Gold exploration contributes
2025	45,000	30,000	Formalized artisanal mining continues; Caracal Gold active

Note: Figures are estimates based on Ministry of Mining reports and industry sources.

Top Gold Mining Laws & Licensing Regulations in Kenya

Kenya’s gold mining sector is governed by a modern legal framework designed to promote responsible extraction, attract investors, and protect communities and the environment. Below are the five key laws and licenses that regulate gold mining in Kenya.

1. The Mining Act, 2016 (Revised 2022)

Main Law Governing Gold Mining in Kenya

The Mining Act, 2016 is the cornerstone of Kenya’s mining industry. It regulates the exploration, extraction, processing, and export of all minerals, including gold.

Key Provisions:

• Establishes the Ministry of Mining, Blue Economy & Maritime Affairs as the main regulator.
• Introduces a transparent licensing system (prospecting, mining, and dealer permits).
• Prioritizes local community benefits and environmental protection.
• Requires royalty payments to the government and local counties (typically 5–8% of gold sales).

Purpose: To ensure sustainable and legal exploitation of Kenya’s mineral wealth.

2. Prospecting and Mining License

Required for Exploration & Commercial Mining

Any company or individual intending to search for or mine gold must obtain a prospecting or mining license from the Cabinet Secretary for Mining.

Types of Licenses:

• Prospecting License: Authorizes geological surveys and sampling.
• Mining License: Permits commercial extraction after successful prospecting results.

Requirements:

• Valid business registration in Kenya
• Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) approval
• Technical and financial capability proof
• Community consent (for large-scale projects)

Duration:

• Prospecting License: Up to 3 years (renewable)
• Mining License: Up to 25 years, depending on project scale

3. Mineral Dealers License

Mandatory for Buying, Selling, or Exporting Gold

To legally trade or export gold in Kenya, individuals or companies must hold a Mineral Dealer’s License issued by the State Department for Mining.

Key Details:

• Authorizes purchase, storage, and export of refined or raw gold
• Requires a traceability record for all gold transactions
• Renewed annually after inspection and compliance verification
• Holders must report monthly transaction data to the Ministry

Ideal For: Exporters, refiners, jewelers, and trading companies (e.g., Gold Buyers Africa).

4. Environmental and Social Impact Assessment (ESIA) License

Issued by the National Environment Management Authority (NEMA)

Before mining begins, all medium- and large-scale gold projects must obtain an Environmental and Social Impact Assessment License.

Purpose:

• To assess the impact of mining on land, water, and local communities
• To ensure compliance with environmental protection standards

Key Steps:

1. Conduct environmental study
2. Submit report to NEMA
3. Undergo public consultation
4. Receive approval before operations

Importance: Ensures sustainable mining and reduces environmental damage in gold-rich areas like Migori and Kakamega.

5. County Government and Community Consent (Local Licensing)

Local Level Approval under Kenya’s Devolved System

Under Kenya’s Constitution (2010) and the Mining Act, counties where mining takes place, such as Migori, Kakamega, and Narok, must be consulted and share in the benefits.

Key Requirements:

• Obtain local permits from County Mining Offices
• Engage local communities through public participation
• Pay royalties and community development fees
• Ensure Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) activities

Purpose: To promote community inclusion and prevent local disputes over mining rights.

Benefit Sharing and Royalty Split in Kenya’s Gold Mining Sector

The Mining Act of 2016 (revised 2022) not only regulates gold mining licenses and operations but also mandates a transparent revenue-sharing framework to ensure that local communities, county governments, and the national government all benefit from mineral extraction.

Royalty Distribution Formula

• National Government: 70% of mining royalties
• County Government: 20% of mining royalties
• Local Community: 10% of mining royalties

Key Points:

1. National Government (70%) – Supports national infrastructure, policy implementation, and regulatory oversight.
2. County Government (20%) – Funds county-level development projects, such as roads, schools, and local health services.
3. Local Community (10%) – Directly benefits communities living near mining operations, improving livelihoods and encouraging local participation in mining initiatives.

Impact on Mining Areas:

• Promotes community consent and cooperation in mining activities.
• Encourages sustainable and socially responsible mining, reducing conflicts between companies and local populations.
• Enhances economic empowerment, especially for counties and communities hosting gold mining projects.

Example: In Migori, Narok, and Kakamega counties, this framework ensures that mining revenues contribute to both local development projects and national economic growth, aligning with Kenya’s broader goal of transforming the gold sector into a sustainable regional powerhouse.

Kenya’s Key Gold Mining Laws & Licenses

Law / License	Issuing Authority	Purpose	Validity
Mining Act, 2016 (Rev. 2022)	Ministry of Mining	Regulates all mining activities in Kenya	Permanent (Governing Law)
Prospecting & Mining License	State Department for Mining	Exploration and extraction of gold	3–25 years
Mineral Dealer’s License	Ministry of Mining	Buying, selling, and exporting gold	1 year (renewable)
Environmental (ESIA) License	NEMA	Ensures environmental compliance	Project-based
County & Community Consent	Local County Governments	Approves local mining operations	Ongoing

Top Investment Opportunities in Kenya’s Gold Mining Sector

1. Large-Scale Gold Exploration & Production

Opportunity:
Kenya’s gold belts particularly the Lirhanda Corridor (Kakamega–Vihiga) and the Migori Greenstone Belt are underexplored compared to neighboring Tanzania and Uganda. Geological studies show multi-million-ounce gold potential, making exploration highly profitable.

Why Invest:

• Government support through the Mining Act, 2016 (Revised 2022)
• Presence of proven deposits in Kakamega, Migori, and Narok
• Availability of joint ventures with companies like Shanta Gold and Caracal Gold PLC

Ideal For:
Foreign investors, mining consortiums, and exploration companies looking to secure long-term gold reserves.

2. Gold Refining and Value Addition Plants

Opportunity:
Currently, most Kenyan gold is exported in raw form by artisanal miners or dealers. There’s a huge gap for modern refining facilities to produce 99.9% pure gold bars, jewelry, and bullion products locally.

Why Invest:

• High domestic and regional demand for refined gold
• Lower export taxes for value-added products
• Government incentives for local beneficiation

Potential Returns:
High profit margins from refining and branding “Made in Kenya Gold Bars” for export to markets like Dubai, India, and Europe.

3. Artisanal and Small-Scale Mining (ASM) Modernization

Opportunity:
Over 200,000 artisanal miners work in Kenya, mainly in Migori, Kakamega, Turkana, and West Pokot. Most use basic tools, resulting in low productivity. Investors can provide equipment leasing, training, and financing to formalize ASM operations.

Why Invest:

• Strong social impact and high scalability
• Partnerships with cooperatives and local governments
• Access to high-grade surface gold deposits

Investment Options:

• Supplying gold processing equipment (crushers, ball mills, cyanidation units)
• Establishing small-scale gold processing plants
• Offering mercury-free technologies (eco-friendly mining)

4. Gold Trading, Export & Logistics

Opportunity:
Kenya’s position as a regional gold trading hub between East and Central Africa (Uganda, Tanzania, DRC) provides vast opportunities in licensed gold export, trading, and logistics.

Why Invest:

• Nairobi serves as a key trade gateway to global gold markets
• Legal export framework under the Mineral Dealer’s License
• High international demand for ethically sourced African gold

Potential Areas:

• Export companies dealing in refined gold bars and nuggets
• Secure logistics and customs clearance services
• Gold storage, vaulting, and assay centers

Example:
Licensed exporters like Gold Buyers Africa already connect African gold suppliers to international buyers safely and transparently.

5. Mining Infrastructure & Support Services

Opportunity:
As new mines open in Kakamega, Narok, and Turkana, demand for infrastructure and support industries is rapidly growing. Investors can profit from providing energy, transport, housing, and security services to mining communities.

Why Invest:

• Mining zones require stable electricity, roads, and processing facilities
• The government encourages public-private partnerships (PPPs)
• Additional revenue from leasing machinery and construction contracts

Potential Ventures:

• Road and bridge construction to link mines to highways
• Power and water supply systems near gold belts
• Mining equipment maintenance and spare parts dealerships

Challenges Facing the Gold Mining Sector in Kenya

Kenya’s gold mining industry holds enormous potential, but several challenges continue to shape the sector. These issues affect miners, investors, and local communities alike, while also presenting opportunities for sustainable solutions.

1. Inadequate Modern Mining Technology

Challenge: Most artisanal and small-scale miners rely on outdated tools such as pans, picks, and sluices, leading to low productivity and unsafe working conditions.

Solution / Opportunity: Adoption of modern equipment (ball mills, gravity concentrators, and mercury-free processing) can increase gold recovery, improve safety, and reduce environmental harm.

2. Environmental Degradation

Challenge: Mercury use, river siltation, and deforestation in gold-rich counties (e.g., Kakamega, Migori, and Turkana) have caused serious environmental and health impacts.

Solution / Opportunity: Government initiatives promoting eco-friendly mining technologies, enforcement of Environmental and Social Impact Assessments (ESIA), and community awareness programs can mitigate pollution and preserve ecosystems.

3. Illegal Mining & Licensing Gaps

Challenge: Thousands of artisanal miners operate without proper licenses, leading to smuggling, revenue loss, and local conflicts.

Solution / Opportunity: Formalizing small-scale miners through cooperatives, easier access to prospecting and mining licenses, and training programs increases compliance, productivity, and ethical sourcing.

4. Limited Access to Finance

Challenge: Many small-scale miners cannot secure loans to invest in equipment, comply with regulations, or expand operations.

Solution / Opportunity: Creation of mining-specific SACCOs, microfinance schemes, and public-private investment funds can provide the capital needed for modernization and growth.

5. Poor Infrastructure

Challenge: Remote mining areas in Turkana, West Pokot, Migori, and Kakamega lack roads, electricity, and water supply, increasing operational costs and reducing investor interest.

Solution / Opportunity: Government–private sector partnerships (PPPs) in road construction, power supply, and processing facilities can improve logistics, boost investment, and connect mining communities to national markets.

Community Benefit-Sharing Mechanism

To address the socio-economic impact of mining, Kenya’s Mining Act (2016, revised 2022) mandates a royalty and benefit-sharing framework that ensures local communities benefit directly from gold extraction:

• National Government: 70% of royalties
• County Government: 20% of royalties
• Local Community: 10% of royalties

Impact:

• Ensures local communities receive a direct share of mining revenue, which can fund schools, health centers, and infrastructure.
• Encourages community consent and cooperation, reducing conflicts between miners and locals.
• Promotes sustainable and socially responsible mining, making Kenya attractive to ethical investors.

Future Outlook: Gold Mining in Kenya (2025–2030)

Kenya’s gold mining industry is entering a transformational phase, driven by improved legal frameworks, new exploration projects, and increased investor confidence. Between 2025 and 2030, the country is expected to evolve from a small-scale producer into a regional gold powerhouse in East Africa.

1. Expansion of Large-Scale Mining Projects

Kenya’s gold production will be significantly boosted by the expansion of large-scale mines.

• Shanta Gold’s West Kenya Project in Kakamega and Vihiga is projected to become the country’s largest gold mine by 2027, with reserves exceeding 1.3 million ounces.
• Caracal Gold PLC’s Kilimapesa Mine in Narok is expanding production capacity to over 2,500 ounces per month, targeting 30,000+ ounces annually.

Outlook: By 2030, Kenya could produce over 200,000 ounces of gold annually, up from the current 35,000–50,000 ounces.

2. Increased Foreign Investment and Exploration

Kenya’s stable political environment, strong legal framework, and strategic location will continue attracting foreign exploration companies from the UK, Canada, and South Africa.

• The government’s Mining Act (2016, revised 2022) offers incentives such as tax exemptions and investment security for licensed companies.
• New exploration blocks in Turkana, West Pokot, and Nandi are expected to attract private and joint-venture investors.

Outlook: Expect 10–15 new exploration licenses issued annually, contributing to significant resource discoveries across western Kenya.

3. Growth of Gold Refining and Value Addition

The government aims to establish modern gold refineries in Nairobi and Migori to process locally mined gold into bullion bars, coins, and jewelry for export.

• This shift will reduce raw gold exports and increase national revenue through value addition and branding.
• Investors will have opportunities in refining, jewelry manufacturing, and bullion trading.

Outlook: By 2030, at least two fully operational gold refineries could be running in Kenya, producing internationally certified gold bars.

4. Formalization and Empowerment of Artisanal Miners

Artisanal and small-scale miners (ASM) currently contribute nearly 60% of Kenya’s gold output, but most operate informally.
The government and development partners (like the World Bank’s Mining for Development Initiative) plan to formalize 200,000+ artisanal miners through cooperatives and training.

Benefits:

• Access to microfinance and legal trading channels
• Introduction of mercury-free technologies
• Enhanced traceability for ethical gold sourcing

Outlook: By 2030, Kenya could become a leader in sustainable and responsible artisanal gold mining in Africa.

5. Adoption of Green & Digital Mining Technologies

The future of mining in Kenya is leaning toward sustainability and digital innovation.

• Mining companies are investing in AI-based geological mapping, drone exploration, and blockchain gold traceability.
• Environmental agencies are pushing for zero-mercury mining zones and eco-friendly processing plants.

Outlook: Expect Kenya’s mining industry to be among the most environmentally conscious and technologically advanced in East Africa by 2030.

6. Rising Global Demand and Strategic Exports

With global gold prices expected to remain high (above $2,000 per ounce), Kenya is well-positioned to benefit from strong export earnings.

• The country’s proximity to regional markets (Tanzania, Uganda, DRC) and trade hubs (Dubai, India, China) gives it a strategic export advantage.
• Government-backed certification will enhance trust in Kenyan gold exports.

Outlook: Gold could become one of Kenya’s top three mineral exports by 2030, alongside soda ash and rare earths.

7. Strengthened Policy and Institutional Framework

The Kenyan government continues to reform the mining sector through:

• A National Mining Policy to streamline licensing and revenue sharing.
• Establishment of the Kenya Minerals and Mining Authority (KMMA) for oversight and data management.
• Enhanced community benefit-sharing mechanisms to promote local development in gold-producing counties.

Outlook: A transparent and investor-friendly regulatory environment will make Kenya a regional model for responsible gold mining governance.

 Frequently Asked Questions About Gold Mining Areas in Kenya

1. Where is gold found in Kenya?

Gold is primarily found in the western region of Kenya, especially in Kakamega, Migori, Vihiga, Narok, Turkana, and West Pokot counties. The Kakamega Gold Belt and Migori Greenstone Belt are the country’s most productive gold zones.

2. Which is the richest gold mining area in Kenya?

The Kakamega Gold Belt is the richest gold mining area in Kenya. It hosts several large-scale exploration projects, including Shanta Gold’s West Kenya Project, which has proven reserves of over 1.3 million ounces of gold.

3. What are the major gold mining regions in Kenya?

Kenya’s major gold mining regions include:

• Kakamega & Vihiga Counties – Part of the Lirhanda Corridor.
• Migori County – Contains the historic Macalder mines.
• Narok County – Home to the Kilimapesa Gold Mine.
• Turkana & West Pokot – Emerging exploration zones.
• Nandi Hills – Known for artisanal mining activities.

4. Which companies are mining gold in Kenya?

Major companies operating in Kenya’s gold sector include:

• Shanta Gold – West Kenya Project (Kakamega & Vihiga)
• Caracal Gold PLC – Kilimapesa Mine (Narok)
• Acacia Mining (now Barrick) – Exploration in western Kenya
• Mayfox Mining Company – Exploration in Turkana and West Pokot

5. Is gold mining in Kenya legal?

Yes, gold mining in Kenya is legal. It is regulated by the Mining Act of 2016, which requires companies and individuals to obtain mining licenses from the Ministry of Mining, Blue Economy & Maritime Affairs before exploration or production.

6. What is the role of artisanal miners in Kenya’s gold sector?

Artisanal and small-scale miners (ASM) contribute about 60% of Kenya’s gold output. They operate in regions like Kakamega, Migori, and Turkana, often using traditional methods. The government is formalizing ASM operations to improve safety, environmental compliance, and income.

7. How much gold does Kenya produce annually?

As of 2025, Kenya produces between 35,000 and 50,000 ounces of gold per year, mainly from artisanal mining and the Kilimapesa Mine. By 2030, production could exceed 200,000 ounces as new large-scale projects come online.

8. Are there new gold discoveries in Kenya?

Yes. Recent exploration by Shanta Gold and Caracal Gold has confirmed new high-grade gold deposits in Kakamega, Vihiga, and Narok. Turkana and West Pokot are also showing promising exploration results for future development.

9. Can foreigners invest in Kenya’s gold mining sector?

Yes. Kenya allows 100% foreign ownership in mining ventures under the Mining Act (2016). Foreign investors must, however, obtain licenses, register with the Ministry, and comply with local content and environmental standards.

10. What are the main challenges facing gold mining in Kenya?

Key challenges include:

• Lack of modern mining technology
• Informal artisanal operations
• Environmental degradation from mercury use
• High licensing costs
• Limited geological data for new investors

11. How is the Kenyan government supporting gold mining?

The government is:

• Updating the National Mining Policy
• Establishing gold refineries in Nairobi and Migori
• Formalizing artisanal miners through cooperatives
• Promoting responsible mining practices and foreign investment

12. Which rivers or regions have alluvial gold in Kenya?

Alluvial gold is found along rivers such as the Yala, Migori, and Nzoia Rivers, particularly in Kakamega, Migori, and Nandi counties, where artisanal miners extract gold from river sediments using panning techniques.

13. How can one get a gold mining license in Kenya?

To get a gold mining license in Kenya, applicants must:

1. Apply through the Mining Cadastre Portal of the Ministry of Mining.
2. Provide geological data or exploration reports.
3. Comply with environmental and community consultation requirements.
4. Pay the required fees and royalties.

14. What environmental measures are being taken in gold mining areas?

The government and NGOs are promoting mercury-free mining, introducing eco-friendly technologies like gravity concentration and borax methods, and enforcing Environmental Impact Assessments (EIA) before mining approvals.

15. What is the future of gold mining in Kenya?

Between 2025 and 2030, Kenya’s gold mining sector is expected to grow rapidly due to:

• Expansion of large-scale mines
• Rising gold prices
• Better regulation and formalization of artisanal mining
• Increased foreign investment and value addition through refining