Kenya Strikes Gold: Major Deposit Discovered,Poised to Boost Economy
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Kakamega,Kenya – A potentially game-changing gold deposit has been identified in Kenya by British mining company Shanta Gold,signaling a significant economic opportunity for the East African nation. The revelation,confirmed in a recent report to Kenyan mining authorities,promises to inject billions of dollars into the economy and reshape Kenya’s position within the regional gold market.
Shanta Gold, which has been conducting exploratory research in the region for several years, highlighted the historical significance of gold mining in Kakamega, noting that extraction activities date back to the colonial era. This latest find represents a ample upgrade in potential yield and economic impact.
Over $200 Million Investment Planned
The company has announced plans to invest over USD 200 million in the progress of a state-of-the-art mine and processing plant. This substantial investment underscores Shanta Gold’s confidence in the deposit’s viability and its long-term potential.
Mining operations are projected to continue for at least eight years, with Shanta Gold committing to a revenue-sharing agreement with the Kenyan government. Under the terms of the agreement, Nairobi will recieve 1% of the value of the ore obtained as direct payments, ensuring the nation benefits directly from its natural resources.
Economic Impact and Regional Implications
Analysts predict the discovery will considerably stimulate Kenya’s economy, creating much-needed jobs and substantially increasing tax and license fee revenues. Currently, the mining sector contributes less than 1% to Kenya’s Gross Domestic Product (GDP). This new deposit has the potential to dramatically alter that figure.
Shanta Gold believes the deposit will position Kenya as a key player in the East African gold mining industry, currently dominated by Tanzania and Sudan. The company anticipates increased competition and collaboration within the region as Kenya establishes itself as a significant gold producer.
For context, Ghana currently leads gold production across the African continent, having extracted over 140 tons of gold last year. Kenya’s entry into the market is expected to challenge this dominance and contribute to the overall growth of the African gold industry.
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