Mining and Blue Economy Cabinet Secretary Hassan Joho worked to calm growing worries about the Mrima Hill mining project. He met with community leaders and experts from Kwale County. People fear harm to land rights, the environment, and cultural sites.
Local groups asked for talks with the government. They worry mining will hurt jobs and holy places near Mrima Hill. This spot in the Coast region holds big value for culture and nature. It has drawn notice before over its minerals and fights about digging them up.
Joho shared a statement on X last Thursday, January 8, 2026. He said the meeting joined elders, community teams, and experts. It set up public input before any big choice.
The statement noted a good talk with Kwale stakeholders on the project. It came after their call for open talks and full public steps.
Joho heard straight from locals. Elders and groups spoke on pay for land, green safety, and fair split of mining gains.
The group included Kaya Mrima elders, Mrima Community Forest Association reps, Kwale experts, and Kwale Mining Alliance members. They all gave their thoughts.
Joho laid out the government’s mining rules. He covered land pay and fair shares of mineral fees.
The Cabinet Secretary said no quick paths for mining. The law comes first. Communities stay safe.
He stressed that Mrima Hill work follows the Mining Act. It guards the environment, people, and culture. Local needs top the list.
Senior mining officials joined Joho. Principal Secretary Harry Kimtai led them. Kwale County Commissioner David Rotich and Lunga Lunga Deputy Commissioner Christopher Siele attended too. This shows national and county teamwork.
