A gold refinery is set to be constructed in Kakamega County. This follows the project commissioning by President Uhuru Kenyatta during his tour in the county.
The dubbed Ikolomani Gold Refinery aims to be a game changer for artisanal miners in the region who are exploited by middlemen in the torturous small-scale gold prospecting business. The project, estimated to cost Sh100 million, features prominently on President Kenyatta’s itinerary during which he is expected to commission several development projects.
The county government handed over the title deed to a 10-acre parcel of land in Lidambidza, Idakho East ward, Ikolomani sub-county for the project. Governor Oparanya issued the document to the Mining Cabinet Secretary John Munyes in a brief ceremony at the Iguhu grounds in the sub-county.
Black market
CS Munyes said the miners will be allowed to deliver their gold directly to the refinery, adding that the process will meet international standards. Once completed, it is projected to eliminate the black market that middlemen use to exploit local miners by offering lower prices for their gold.
“The aim of this project is to improve the livelihoods of the community, uplift the regional economy and create direct and indirect jobs for wealth creation. The national government has provided Sh50 million to support the project,” said Mr Oparanya
Consultants interested in the tender are expected to review the information regarding the location of minerals, the level of production, the kind of trade and the use of gold in the region. They are expected to analyse production potential plus the commercial, economic and social viability of the expected refinery.
“Potential consultants have until November 8 to express their interest. Successful consultants will be given 90 days to finish the study and deliver the report,” Mr Oparanya said.
