Mining Principal Secretary Harry Kimtai today held a consultative meeting with representatives of the salt subsector and the State Department for Lands to advance discussions on the regulatory transition of salt operations following the Court of Appeal’s decision affirming salt as a mineral and, consequently, subject to regulation under the Mining Act.
The meeting formed part of the ongoing Government–industry consultations aimed at establishing a clear, predictable and sustainable regulatory framework for the subsector while safeguarding the interests of investors, workers, communities and the wider economy.
It reviewed the progress made during previous consultations and agreed on the establishment of a Joint Transition Committee to provide a structured mechanism for addressing outstanding regulatory, administrative and institutional matters arising from the transition.
“We further agreed that the transition process should be undertaken in a manner that provides regulatory certainty while avoiding unnecessary disruption to salt production, trade, employment and the wider economy,” PS Kimtai said.
The Principal Secretary expressed confidence that the Joint Transition Committee will develop practical transitional arrangements, including appropriate licensing procedures and mechanisms for reconciling royalties, rents, levies and other applicable payments.
He noted that the State Department for Lands will participate in the transition process, with the National Land Commission also to be engaged to address matters falling within its mandate.
Other relevant Government agencies will similarly be brought into the process to address areas of regulatory interface and ensure that the eventual framework provides clarity on institutional mandates and responsibilities.
The Principal Secretary further noted that the salt industry will submit proposals for consideration in the ongoing review of the National Mining Policy. He said the review presents an opportunity to ensure that the unique characteristics and operational realities of the salt subsector are adequately reflected in national policy and, subsequently, in the relevant legislative and regulatory reforms.
The Joint Transition Committee has been given 60 days to undertake its work and submit recommendations to guide the transition process.
PS Kimtai emphasized that the State Department for Mining remains committed to a collaborative, transparent and orderly transition of the salt subsector under the Mining Act, adding that the Government’s priority is to provide regulatory certainty, strengthen compliance, facilitate responsible investment and ensure that the salt industry continues to support employment, livelihoods and Kenya’s broader economic growth.
