Kenya discovers first coltan minerals for cell phones, green tech
Kenya has discovered its first deposits of coltan, a precious mineral used in the manufacturing of cell phones, laptops, electric car batteries and other communication devices in the country.
Kenya's Cabinet Secretary for Mining, Blue Economy and Maritime Affairs Salim Mvurya announced at the Embu county headquarters on January 24, that “it is official” Kenya has coltan reserves.
Mvurya added that the deposits have been identified in six counties across the country but the economic value of this newfound mineral is yet to be determined by the government.
Currently, The Democratic Republic of Congo holds more than 70% of the world's coltan reserves which have led to severe human rights violations and environmental degradation.
Though it is not clear how large these deposits are, the discovery raises Kenya’s position as a potential mineral exporter.
Mvurya said the discovery will generate more employment opportunities and contribute to the growth of Kenya's mining sector.
Coltan, short for columbite-tantalite, is an essential mineral used in producing most modern technological devices such as cellphones, laptop computers, cars and other electronic devices.
“It is now official. We have coltan deposits in the country and we want to see how we can inspire the investors," Mvurya was quoted by the East African. "We shall be setting up laboratory services in eight regions where we shall be testing samples and declaring the quality of minerals found in a particular region," he said.
According to Forbes, the average price of coltan mineral is $48 per kilogram.
In DR Congo, the world’s biggest coltan mineral producer, the increasing worldwide demand for the mineral has fuelled conflicts, where opposing militias struggle for supremacy in mines producing coltan and other valuable minerals.
