Types of Mining Licenses in Kenya

1. Prospecting License

Issued for mineral exploration and mapping. Valid for two years and renewable upon meeting set conditions.

2. Mining License

Granted to entities undertaking commercial mineral extraction. Typically valid for five years and renewable.

3. Special Mining License

Designed for large-scale mining projects. Granted for up to 25 years, subject to periodic review and renewal.

4. Artisan and Small-Scale Mining (ASM) License

For local and community-based mining operations. Valid for three years, focusing on small-scale mineral extraction.

5. Mineral Dealers and Export Permits

Required for anyone trading or exporting minerals within or outside Kenya. Holders must comply with export reporting and royalty obligations.

Requirements for a Mining or Prospecting License

Applicants must submit several legal, financial, and environmental documents to the Ministry of Mining:

• Applicant’s full name and address
• Certificate of Registration (and Memorandum & Articles of Association for companies)
• Previous mining or geological experience summary
• Cadastral Survey Plan approved by the Director of Surveys
• Mining feasibility study report
• Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) Report certified by NEMA
• Written consent from landowners (for private land)
• County Government consent (for trust land)
• Financial details, especially for export dealers

Step-by-Step Process of Applying for a Mining License in Kenya

Step 1: Preliminary Exploration and Site Analysis

Conduct initial geological studies to confirm the mineral potential of your target area and prepare supporting data.

Step 2: Register a Company in Kenya

Only registered companies can legally engage in mining. Ensure your business is registered and tax compliant.

Step 3: Conduct an Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA)

Obtain EIA approval from NEMA after community consultations. The report must address potential impacts and mitigation measures.

Step 4: Register on the Mining Cadastre Portal

Create an account on the Mining Cadastre Portal. Account approval is required before application.

Step 5: Submit Application and Attach Documents

Log in to the portal, select the license type, upload required documents, and confirm area coordinates using the interactive map tool.

Step 6: Pay Application Fees

Pay fees through the portal. Charges vary based on license type and the size of the exploration area.

Step 7: Ministry Review and Site Inspection

The Ministry of Mining reviews all applications and may conduct a site inspection to verify submitted details.

Step 8: License Approval and Issuance

If approved, the Ministry issues a digital license through the portal. You can then commence exploration or mining activities.

Costs of Obtaining a Mining License in Kenya

• Application Fee: KSh 5,000 – 50,000 depending on license type
• EIA Fees: Determined by project scope and environmental impact
• Annual Royalties: Between 1% and 8% of gross mineral sales value

Responsibilities of Mining License Holders

Mining license holders must comply with all legal and environmental obligations:

• Adhere to the Mining Act 2016 and Environmental Management laws
• Pay royalties and taxes on extracted minerals
• Implement health and safety standards at all mining sites
• Engage local communities and contribute to development initiatives

Renewal, Suspension, and Cancellation

Renewal

Renewals must be filed at least 90 days before expiry, including updated EIA reports and proof of tax compliance.

Suspension or Cancellation

Licenses can be suspended or revoked for non-payment of royalties, environmental violations, or non-compliance with the Mining Act.

Legal Framework Governing Mining in Kenya

All mineral rights and operations are governed by the Mining Act, 2016 and related regulations. Oversight is provided by the Ministry of Mining, Blue Economy and Maritime Affairs. Environmental approvals fall under NEMA, while revenue compliance is monitored by the Kenya Revenue Authority (KRA).