By John Kariuki
Principal Secretary for Mining, Elijah Mwangi, is spearheading a major digital transformation in Kenya’s mining sector aimed at enhancing efficiency, transparency, and accountability. In a recent high-level meeting, he hosted PS John Tanui of the ICT department to assess the digitization needs of the State Department for Mining (SDM) as part of ongoing reforms.
Accompanied by senior officials from both the Mining and ICT departments, PS Mwangi emphasized the urgency of streamlining core processes in the sector through digital integration. The discussions highlighted the need for enhanced service delivery, aligning Kenya’s mining operations with global best practices.
Under his leadership, the department is finalizing the development of key Information Management Systems to improve operations in several critical areas. These include a Laboratory Information System for mineral analysis and certification, an Explosives Management System for regulating the use of explosives, a Royalty Collection System to enhance revenue accountability, and a Library System to provide a digital database for mining-related data and research. Additionally, revamping the National Geo-Data Bank is a priority to ensure improved access to geological data and facilitate informed decision-making in mineral exploration and investment.
PS Mwangi reaffirmed that this digitization process aligns with Kenya’s Mining Act (Cap 306), which mandates that all activities related to mineral rights processing be conducted online. Once fully implemented, the new digital systems will significantly reduce turnaround time in issuing mineral rights, boost revenue collection, and strengthen surveillance and monitoring of mining activities.
By championing these digital reforms, PS Elijah Mwangi is positioning Kenya’s mining sector for a future of increased efficiency and investor confidence, unlocking its full economic potential.