Democracy for the Citizens Party (DCP) leader Rigathi Gachagua has accused President William Ruto of pursuing a Mrima Hills niobium deal involving foreign companies and mineral deposits in Kwale County that he claims are worth trillions of shillings.
Gachagua made the allegations while addressing Kenyans in Kansas City in the United States.
He claimed Ruto’s visit to New York for the 81st United Nations General Assembly was also intended to advance agreements with American companies over the exploitation of niobium at Mrima Hills.
However, the claims come against an existing government process that has sought investors for the mineral-rich area.
Government documents show Kenya invited qualified mining operators to express interest in commercialising the Mrima Hill deposits through a public tender process.
At the same time, Mining Cabinet Secretary Hassan Joho has previously said that no mining licence had been issued for Mrima Hills and that the project remained at a preliminary stage.
Gachagua Makes Fresh Mrima Hills Claim
Gachagua’s latest remarks have reignited debate over the future of the mineral deposits at Mrima Hills.
The DCP leader claims foreign companies have already been positioned to exploit the deposits.
He has also questioned the government’s handling of the resource and called on Kenyans to remain vigilant.
Claims Ruto Is Pursuing Foreign Deal
Speaking in Kansas City, Gachagua alleged that Ruto’s US trip went beyond his scheduled participation in the United Nations General Assembly.
He claimed the President’s main objective was to firm up agreements with American companies for the exploitation of niobium.
Gachagua described the UNGA engagement as a cover for the alleged negotiations.
