Sofax Fluorspar Kenya today signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with China’s Mizztech Group to refurbish its Kerio Valley-based processing plant, a crucial step towards reviving Kenya’s fluorspar mining operations. The agreement, signed at the Kenya National Chamber of Commerce and Industry (KNCCI) offices in Nairobi, establishes the framework for the Engineering, Procurement, and Construction (EPC) contract, which is expected to be completed within the next six months. The agreement comes barely a month after Sofax Fluorspar Kenya received a 25-year mining licence (ML/2025/0216) from the State Department of Mining. The licence, valid until June 3rd, 2050, allows the business rights to mine, mill, and market Acidspar Grade Fluorspar (97% CaF₂). Under the terms, Sofax is mandated to revive fluorspar mining, refurbish its processing plant, and position the commodity for the export market under the Sofax Fluorspar Project.
During the occasion, Sofax Fluorspar Kenya’s CEO, John Masanda, described the partnership as a significant milestone in Kenya’s mining sector. His agreement with Mizztech Group is about more than just rehabilitating a facility; it is about realising the full potential of the Kerio Valley fluorspar reserves, creating jobs, and establishing Kenya as a competitive competitor in the global fluorspar market. This is a significant step towards improving our processing operations and providing value to our stakeholders over the next 25 years.
Charles Cheng, CEO of Mizztech Group, emphasised fluorspar’s global relevance and numerous industrial applications. Fluorspar is a critical mineral used in the production of steel, aluminium, glass, ceramics, and various chemical applications. Through this relationship, we hope to introduce cutting-edge technology and knowledge to Kerio Valley, ensuring world-class processing standards that meet worldwide market demand.
KNCCI Ag CEO KK Mutai, who saw the signing, praised the relationship, stating that it is consistent with Kenya’s industrialisation ambitions and the Chamber’s mandate to foster trade, investment, and strategic alliances. This is the type of revolutionary relationship that exemplifies the value of connecting Kenyan businesses with global partners. It will not only benefit the mining industry but will also contribute to our overall economic growth strategy. The restoration of the processing plant is projected to improve operational efficiency, product quality, and Kenya’s mining-related export profits.
