International Competition for Kenya's Rare Earth Minerals at Mrima Hill: Economic Opportunity vs. Community Concerns

Oct 31, 2025 04:23 pm CST

Kenya's Mrima Hill has become the focus of international attention due to its valuable rare earth deposits estimated at $62.4 billion. As nations including the US and China compete for access to these critical minerals, local Digo communities express concerns about potential displacement and environmental degradation. Meanwhile, Kenya's government implements mining reforms aimed at boosting the sector's contribution to GDP from 0.8% to 10% by 2030, balancing economic opportunity against community rights and environmental protection.