KAKAMEGA, Kenya — British mining firm Shanta Gold Limited has announced the discovery of one of Kenya’s largest gold deposits to date, valued at approximately KSh 683 billion, in Kakamega County.
According to an Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) report submitted to the National Environment Management Authority (NEMA), Shanta Gold’s Kenyan subsidiary confirmed the presence of 1.27 million ounces of gold at its Isulu-Bushiangala underground mining project in Kakamega South Sub-county.
The company estimates that it will require about 337 acres of land, most of which are privately owned, for the development of the mine. This will lead to the displacement of around 800 households in the area.
To mitigate the social impact, Shanta Gold has earmarked six possible resettlement sites spanning 1,932 acres, where affected families can either relocate within the region or opt for monetary compensation.
The Isulu-Bushiangala project, which has been under exploration for several years, is part of Shanta Gold’s broader effort to expand its footprint in East Africa. The company has indicated that the Kakamega project could become a major contributor to Kenya’s mining sector, creating hundreds of jobs and boosting local infrastructure once full operations commence.
Residents and local leaders have welcomed the potential economic benefits but also raised concerns over land rights, compensation fairness, and environmental protection. NEMA is currently reviewing the EIA report, which will determine whether the project proceeds to the next phase of approval.
If licensed, the Kakamega mine would mark a significant milestone in Kenya’s quest to diversify its economy through mineral resource development, positioning the western region as a new hub for gold production.
About The Author
