Ruto Makes Major Decision on Magadi Soda Ash Mining, Opens Door to New Investors

President William Ruto has announced plans to open up Kenya’s soda ash mining industry in Magadi to four or five new investors in a move aimed at increasing competition, creating employment and boosting local manufacturing.

The President issued the directive on Tuesday, October 28, 2026, while speaking in Kajiado County, where he expressed concerns over the dominance of Tata Chemicals in the exploitation of the country’s soda ash resources.

Ruto argued that Kenya should no longer depend on exporting raw minerals when the country has the potential to process them into finished products and generate greater economic benefits.

He directed Mining Cabinet Secretary Hassan Ali Joho to oversee the process of bringing additional investors into the sector and ensure that the mineral is used to support local industries.

According to the President, the vast 240,000 acre mining area has sufficient resources to accommodate several companies rather than allowing one investor to control the entire industry.

Ruto particularly wants Kenya to establish local glass and chemical manufacturing industries that will use soda ash as a key raw material.

He maintained that prospective investors must demonstrate how their businesses would benefit Kenyans through employment opportunities, industrial development and increased economic activity.

The announcement comes amid an ongoing dispute between the government and Tata Chemicals over mining operations in Magadi.

Kajiado Governor Joseph Ole Lenku has raised concerns over outstanding obligations, including the return of community land, unpaid land rates and royalties, as well as the restoration of water supply to Nguruman residents.

Tata Chemicals reportedly owes the Kajiado County government KSh17 billion in land rates and royalties, while the Magadi community is said to be owed KSh1 billion.

Meanwhile, Joho announced that the government would advertise the available investment opportunities and require interested companies to submit fresh applications.

The proposed changes could reshape Kenya’s soda ash industry, with the government seeking to retain more value from its natural resources while expanding manufacturing and employment opportunities.

Sources; https://www.facebook.com/share/p/19vtBPfyzB/

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