The government is determined to crack down on the illegal export of unprocessed and raw minerals, which is costing the country billions of shillings.

Cabinet Secretary for Mining and the Blue Economy, Hassan Joho, emphasized the urgency of addressing this issue, noting that the government will deploy two mining officers at every entry point to curb these illegal activities.

Joho explained that smugglers often pay royalties to the countries where they deposit the unprocessed minerals, bypassing Kenyan regulations and causing significant financial losses.

The Cabinet Secretary highlighted that Kenya has strict laws prohibiting the export of minerals without proper documentation, and he vowed to enforce these regulations more effectively.

Speaking to the press on Wednesday after meeting with the Nyanza regional mining officer, Joho stressed that the illegal export of minerals must be stopped to protect the country's revenue. 

He also emphasized the need for existing laws to be enforced fairly across the mining sector.

Additionally, Joho assured stakeholders that the payment of royalties in the mining sector will be expedited according to the law. 

He acknowledged the frustration of those who have waited over seven years to receive their dues and promised that such delays will no longer occur.