A Kapenguria-based co-operative society is seeking to mine gemstones in West Pokot county in the wake of a new mining law that recognises small-scale miners. The government is targeting to incorporate small-scale miners in mineral production and exports as it seeks to grow the mining sector’s earnings ten-fold by 2030. Alale Mining Co-operative Society Limited has applied for an exclusive prospecting licence for gemstones. Alale is being considered to prospect for gemstones “except diamond and non-precious minerals” at an area covering 17.09 square kilometres. Mining Cabinet secretary Dan Kazungu said the new law recognises the small or artisanal miners.

Source: The Star July 04, 2016 03:45 UTC