Kenya suspends Tata Chemicals' Magadi soda-ash operations over mining-law compliance

Kenya has suspended Tata Chemicals Magadi’s mining operations over compliance concerns under the Mining Act, in a dispute that has reached President William Ruto’s desk.

Mining Cabinet Secretary Hassan Joho told Al Jazeera that a government audit found Tata never applied for a mineral right under the Mining Act, relying instead on its land concessions; Tata’s first mineral-right application came on 26 July 2024. “Past oversights do not grant immunity from existing laws,” Joho said.

The suspension notice was issued on 28 July. Issues flagged include mineral royalties, community development agreements, local processing, Kenyan employment, procurement of local goods and services, and outstanding matters with the Kajiado County government. Ruto visited Kajiado, ordered the company to leave pending resolution by a joint technical committee, and Joho called its deliberations “progressive”.

Tata said it submitted a comprehensive response to the ministry on 11 August, is waiting for further direction, respects the government’s authority, and is committed to constructive engagement. Kajiado Governor Joseph Ole Lenku said “I have been vindicated”, calling the county’s seat at the table non-negotiable and payment of accrued land rates an “irreducible minimum”.

Residents are divided: Esther Nganoni called Tata “our lifeline”, citing bursaries, water and health services; Nkanoi Matipei wants more jobs and community projects; former children officer Cosmas Karera Kiratu warned an abrupt end could have serious consequences.

Commercial soda-ash production at Magadi dates to 1911; Tata acquired the operation in 2005, renaming it Tata Chemicals Magadi Limited.