Kakamega’s Sh5.8B Gold Refinery Set to Boost Western Kenya Economy
Deputy President Kithure Kindiki says the Sh5.8B gold refinery in Kakamega will transform Western Kenya’s economy. The facility, 65% complete, aims to curb gold smuggling and boost returns for artisanal miners. It is expected to be fully operational by May 2026.
Deputy President Kithure Kindiki has hailed the ongoing construction of a Sh5.8 billion gold refinery in Isughu, Ikolomani, Kakamega County, as a game-changer for Western Kenyas economy. Kindiki said the Kenya Gold Refinery, now 65 percent complete, will be fully operational by May 2026.
He emphasized that the project, spearheaded by the National Mining Corporation and the National Treasury, marks a significant shift in the gold value chain, which will no longer be left to the private sector alone due to its sensitive nature.
Kindiki lamented that illegal gold smuggling in the past led to loss of lives and deprived communities and governments of deserved revenues. He said the new facility will ensure that artisanal miners benefit from safer working conditions and better returns.
The Deputy President encouraged artisanal miners to register with cooperatives to enable government support and regulation. He said the refinery will serve not only Kakamega but also neighboring gold-rich regions, ensuring economic benefits are shared widely.
You Might Also Like
-
Health CS Aden Duale has extended the tenure of former NHIF staff under the new Social Health Authority (SHA) by six months. The move ensures continuity as SHA completes its recruitment. Staff seeking redeployment to other public bodies will be reassigned starting next week.
-
Cleophas Malala has warned President Ruto against arresting Rigathi Gachagua, saying it would provoke national outrage. He accused Ruto of silencing dissent and targeting former allies. Malala also held Ruto responsible for the security withdrawal of MP Jane Kihara.
-
Naivasha MP Jayne Kihara has accused President Ruto of endangering her life after her security was withdrawn. She claims the move targets allies of DP Gachagua amid rising political tensions. Kihara warned Ruto would be to blame if anything happens to her.
-
Wiper leader Kalonzo Musyoka has accused the government of state capture and lauded Auditor General Gathungu and Controller of Budget Nyakang’o for their integrity. He praised them for exposing corruption despite facing intimidation. Kalonzo urged professionals to support their fight for accountab
-
Embakasi East MP Babu Owino has been admitted to the roll of advocates, marking a major legal milestone. He pledged to use his new role to fight for justice and hold the government accountable. Owino credited his journey to his tough upbringing in Kisumu’s Nyalenda slums.
-
Activist Boniface Mwangi was deported from Tanzania and left in Ukunda, Kwale County, appearing injured and frail. He was taken to a Diani hospital for medical attention. His release followed public pressure and diplomatic intervention after he went missing on Monday.
