In Kenya, the US is interested in huge deposits at Mrima Hill, which are estimated to be worth $62.4 billion (Sh8.03 trillion), including significant niobium resources. Josh Kroon, US Deputy Assistant Secretary for Textiles, Consumer Goods, Materials, Critical Minerals, and Metals, has referred to America as “a partner” rather than countries that invest, mine, and then abandon projects. The United States has intensified its interest in Kenya’s mining sector as part of an aggressive pursuit of access to African rare earth minerals, notably those found in the Democratic Republic of the Congo, which are critical for defence and technology. This is due to its emphasis on transparency, regulatory clarity, and early detection of social and environmental issues, as well as a strong commitment to mutual benefit with its partners, which distinguishes it from other global powers such as China.
It is pursuing strategic relationships in the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC) and Kenya in an effort to challenge Chinese supremacy. America is considering arrangements, including potential security assistance for mineral access in the DRC and Kenya as a base for combating Al Shabaab. The United States is interested in huge resources at Mrima Hill in Kenya, which are estimated to be worth $62.4 billion (Sh8.03 trillion), including substantial niobium deposits.
Both US authorities and Western-backed consortia have expressed interest, with Australian corporations RareX and Iluka Resources eyeing the property. Kroon emphasised Kenya’s geological potential and institutional strengths, defining the collaboration as both strategic and value-driven. Geology governs geography, and Kenya is blessed with good geology. But, more importantly, Kenya has robust institutions and the rule of law, Kroon stated. He emphasised that US engagement is based on collaboration rather than extraction.
