Title: Africa's mineral policy renaissance: reflection of geopolitical transformations for generational wealth creation in Kenya

Authors: Obed Nyangena; Nyaboga Douglas Mochama; Jacob Wanyonyi Nato

Addresses: University of Nairobi, P.O. Box 30197-00100, Nairobi, Kenya; National Mining Corporation, P.O. Box 115-00100, Nairobi, Kenya ' University of Electronic Science and Technology of China (UESTC), Qingshuihe Campus, No. 2006, Xiyuan Avenue, West Hi-Tech Zone, Chengdu, Sichuan 611731, China ' Kenya Institute for Public Policy Research and Analysis (KIPPRA), P.O. Box 56445-00200, Nairobi, Kenya

Abstract: This study examines the African mining sector with focus on Kenya to offer insights for policy development amid escalating global competition and uncertainties within supply chains for critical and strategic minerals. Evolution of Kenya's mining regulatory framework is outlined from the inception of the 1940 Mining Act. Efforts to review the Act commenced in 1993, culminating in the introduction of the Mining Act, 2016. The protracted evolution underscores the intricacies linked to the formulation of a comprehensive sector legislative framework. The implementation of the 2016 Act was a response to demands for reform, grounded in the Constitution enacted in 2010. It is posited that Kenya is strategically situated to assert its position and play an active role in shaping international policies to protect its mineral interests and promote wealth generation. The study presents actionable strategies to expand the mining sector and align it with the dynamic demands of the industry.

Keywords: just energy transition; transparency; public participation; Kenya.

DOI: 10.1504/IJMME.2026.152405

International Journal of Mining and Mineral Engineering, 2026 Vol.17 No.1, pp.41 - 56

Received: 19 Nov 2024
Accepted: 02 Sep 2025
Published online: 18 Mar 2026 *

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