Kenya's mining sector is facing scrutiny regarding social welfare as the Mrima Hills project, valued at over Sh8.1 trillion, attracts international bidders. A recent consultative meeting saw Kwale County Deputy Governor Chirema Kombo walk out, highlighting growing tensions.

• The Mrima Hills project contains deposits of niobium and other highly sought-after rare earth minerals with an estimated value exceeding Sh8.1 trillion.
• Deputy Governor Chirema Kombo of Kwale County walked out of a meeting chaired by Mining Cabinet Secretary Ali Hassan Joho, signaling potential disagreements over the project's prospects.
• The project is attracting multiple international conglomerates, indicating significant global interest in Kenya's mineral resources.