Mining operations at Tata Chemicals Magadi Limited have been suspended with immediate effect after the government cited multiple unresolved regulatory and compliance breaches.
In a press release issued on Wednesday, July 29, 2026, Cabinet Secretary for Mining, Blue Economy and Maritime Affairs Hassan Ali Joho said the company will remain shut until it fully complies with the Mining Act, related regulations and all other applicable laws governing Kenya’s mining sector.
“The Cabinet Secretary for Mining, Blue Economy and Maritime Affairs, Hon. Hassan Ali Joho, has ordered the immediate suspension of all mining operations by Tata Chemicals Magadi Limited until the company fully complies with the Mining Act, its Regulations and all other applicable laws governing Kenya’s mining sector,” the ministry said.
The ministry said the decision followed years of engagement between the State Department for Mining and the company over its statutory obligations under the Mining Act, the Mining (Licence and Permit) Regulations 2017, the Mining (Royalty Collection and Management) Regulations 2024 and other legal frameworks.
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According to the statement, several critical issues remain unresolved.
“Despite these engagements, several critical compliance issues remain unresolved including lack of a clear mineral beneficiation/value addition strategy, outstanding royalty reconciliation and payment obligations, insufficient export reporting and reconciliation, poor implementation of Community Development Agreements (CDA), inadequate employment and skills transfer plan for Kenyan citizens, weak procurement of local goods and services, and environmental compliance shortfalls,” the ministry said.
The company has now been directed to provide proof that it has met all statutory requirements before any resumption of operations.
“The company has, therefore, been directed to submit comprehensive documentation and evidence demonstrating full compliance with all the statutory obligations and to address any outstanding liabilities before it can resume operations,” the statement added.
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Joho said the government would not compromise on responsible exploitation of the country’s mineral resources.
“CS Joho reassures that the Ministry remains steadfast in its commitment to ensuring that Kenya’s mineral resources are exploited responsibly, sustainably, and in a manner that delivers maximum economic value to the country while safeguarding the environment and protecting the interests of host communities,” the ministry stated.
