Mining Cabinet Secretary Ali Hassan Joho confirmed the discovery of gold worth approximately Ksh 680 billion in Kakamega on November 13, 2025. Speaking on Citizen TV, he outlined how revenues will be distributed among the national government, county government, and local community. The find by a British firm in the Lirhanda Corridor promises jobs, training, and economic growth, despite concerns over foreign involvement.
On Thursday, November 13, 2025, Mining Cabinet Secretary Ali Hassan Joho addressed the recent gold discovery in Kakamega during an interview on Citizen TV. He verified reports of gold valued at about Ksh 680 billion, noting that the actual worth could exceed this figure. The deposit lies within the Lirhanda Corridor, a 1,200-kilometer mineral belt spanning Kakamega and Vihiga counties, uncovered after years of intensive exploration and drilling.
A British company identified the precise location and is preparing to commence mining. Joho explained that the firm has proposed a plan to the government, committing Ksh 26.8 billion for mine development and a processing plant. This could establish Kenya's first large-scale underground gold operation. Revenues will come from levies, royalties, and taxes, distributed proportionally: three percent as royalties, five percent as an export levy, one percent reserved for the community, and 10 percent of the asset granted to the government on a free-carrying basis.
The local community stands to gain from employment opportunities, training programs, and direct investment boosting the economy. Joho justified the foreign firm's role due to the gold's depth—over one kilometer underground—requiring advanced technology beyond Kenya's current capabilities. "The gold discovered was over one kilometer deep into the earth’s surface. Surely, you and I as common mwananchi do not have the capacity to go there and start mining. We do not have that level of technology and expertise, so we will require the services of the foreign firm," Joho stated.
He highlighted Kenya's lag in mineral development compared to other East African nations and assured that artisanal miners will not be displaced, with designated areas for them. Any local displacements will follow due processes with guaranteed compensation. Joho's comments respond to public uncertainty about the British company's involvement potentially limiting national benefits from this natural resource.