Mining Cabinet Secretary Hassan Joho has ordered the immediate suspension of all mining operations by Tata Chemicals Magadi Limited, citing years of unresolved statutory compliance issues.
In a directive issued on Wednesday, the CS made it clear that the suspension will remain in effect until the company fully adheres to the Mining Act, its regulations, and all other applicable laws governing Kenya’s mining sector.
The decision, according to Joho, follows prolonged engagement between the State Department for Mining and the company over its legal obligations under various regulatory frameworks, including the Mining (Licence and Permit) Regulations 2017 and the Mining (Royalty Collection and Management) Regulations 2024.
Tata Chemicals Magadi Mining. Photo: Courtesy.
Despite extended consultations, several compliance issues remain unresolved.
These include the lack of a clear mineral beneficiation and value addition strategy, outstanding royalty reconciliation and payment obligations, and insufficient export reporting and reconciliation.
The company has also been cited for poor implementation of Community Development Agreements, inadequate employment and skills transfer plans for Kenyan citizens, weak procurement of local goods and services, and environmental compliance shortfalls.
Joho directed Tata Chemicals Magadi to submit comprehensive documentation and evidence demonstrating full compliance with all statutory obligations before mining activities can resume.
He reaffirmed the Ministry’s commitment to ensuring that Kenya’s mineral resources are exploited responsibly and sustainably, delivering maximum economic value while safeguarding the environment and protecting host communities.
Tata Chemicals Magadi, one of Africa’s largest soda ash manufacturers, has operated at Lake Magadi in Kajiado County since its establishment in 1911.
The company became a subsidiary of India’s global Tata Group in 2005, having previously been known as the Magadi Soda Company.
