Kenya has just unveiled its first-ever coltan deposits, a game-changer for the production of electric car batteries and electronic devices! 🚗📱💻 The rare mineral, essential for manufacturing capacitors, is used in gadgets like mobile phones, laptops, and electric cars. This is a major milestone as the Democratic Republic of Congo currently dominates over 70% of the world’s coltan reserves, often linked to violent conflicts.
🕵️♂️ The size of Kenya’s coltan deposits is yet to be determined, but Minister Salim Mvurya confirmed that “it is now official.” The mineral has been found in six counties, and experts will assess its economic value through ground truthing. 🌐💰
💼 This discovery is not just about resources; it’s about jobs! The mining industry in Kenya is set to expand, with expectations to contribute up to 10% of the GDP, according to the Kenya National Chamber of Commerce and Industry. 📈💼
💎 Coltan, when refined into tantalum, is a heat-resistant powder used to make capacitors. On average, a kilogram of this rare ore can fetch $48 (£37). The discovery in Kenya could potentially reduce tantalum costs and benefit the global electronics industry. 💡💰
🏞️ Residents in Embu County, one of the counties with coltan reserves, are advised to hold onto their land. MP Nebart Muriuki emphasized, “A precious mineral has been found here, and if you want to benefit, you should not sell your land.” 🏡🛑
In conclusion, Kenya’s coltan discovery is a significant step towards expanding the mining industry, creating jobs, and potentially reducing tantalum costs globally. 🌍🛠️ Exciting times ahead for Kenya and the tech world! 🚀🌟
📰 Sources:
- [Switch TV](https://news.switchtv.ke/2024/01/kenyas-discovery-of-valuable-coltan-deposits-what-the-future-holds/)
- [BBC News](https://www.bbc.com/news/world-africa-68090482)
- [Kahawa Tungu](https://kahawatungu.com/kenya-discovers-coltan-deposits-cs-mvurya-says/)
