A Chinese investment firm has unveiled plans to construct a Sh2 billion copper processing plant in Makueni County, marking a significant step toward value addition in Kenya’s growing mining sector.
The project, announced during a meeting between the investor and Makueni County officials on February 24, 2026, will focus on beneficiation and refining of copper ore mined locally and from neighbouring regions. The facility is expected to process copper concentrates into higher-grade cathodes and other semi-finished products suitable for export or domestic industrial use.
Makueni Governor Mutula Kilonzo Jr welcomed the investment, describing it as a game-changer for the county’s economy. “This plant will transform Makueni from a raw material exporter into a value-adding hub,” Kilonzo said. “We have confirmed copper deposits in several parts of the county and surrounding areas. Processing here will create hundreds of direct jobs, thousands of indirect opportunities in transport, logistics and services, and generate substantial revenue through royalties and taxes.”
The governor added that the project aligns with national policy to promote local mineral beneficiation rather than exporting raw ore. “For too long we have shipped out our wealth in raw form and imported finished goods at higher cost,” Kilonzo stated. “This investment closes that loop and keeps more benefits within Kenya.”
The Chinese firm, which has not yet been publicly named pending final agreements, has already conducted preliminary feasibility studies and secured initial land allocation in collaboration with the county government. The proposed site is near confirmed copper occurrences and existing road infrastructure to facilitate transportation of ore and finished products.
The Sh2 billion investment covers land preparation, construction of the processing plant, installation of smelting and refining equipment, power supply upgrades and environmental mitigation measures. The facility is designed to start with a capacity of 10,000 tonnes of copper concentrate per year, with potential expansion to 30,000 tonnes once full production is achieved.
County officials say the project will prioritise local employment and skills transfer. “We have negotiated for at least 70 percent of the workforce to be from Makueni during construction and 60 percent during operations,” said a senior county executive involved in the talks. “There will also be training programmes for local youth in mining engineering, metallurgy, safety and plant operations so that Kenyans can take up skilled roles.”
The announcement has generated excitement among residents and local leaders in Makueni, a county that has seen limited large-scale industrial investment despite its mineral potential. Copper deposits have been confirmed in areas such as Kathonzweni, Mbooni and Kibwezi, but extraction has remained largely artisanal or small-scale due to lack of processing infrastructure.
Mining experts say local beneficiation could significantly increase earnings from copper. “Exporting concentrates earns far less than exporting refined copper or semi-products,” said a Nairobi-based mining consultant. “A processing plant in Makueni would capture more value, create a multiplier effect in the local economy and reduce Kenya’s reliance on imported copper products.”
The project is still subject to final regulatory approvals, including environmental impact assessment, mining licences and investment incentives under the Mining Act and Special Economic Zones framework. The county government has promised to fast-track necessary permits while ensuring compliance with environmental and community safeguards.
Environmental groups have urged thorough scrutiny. “Copper processing can involve chemicals and tailings that pose risks to water sources and soil,” said a representative from a local conservation NGO. “We welcome investment but insist on rigorous EIA, community consultation and monitoring to prevent pollution of rivers and farmlands.”
Makueni leaders say they are committed to balancing development with sustainability. “We will not sacrifice our environment for short-term gains,” Kilonzo reiterated. “The investor has agreed to international best practices in tailings management, water recycling and rehabilitation of mined areas.”
The Sh2 billion facility is expected to begin construction later in 2026, with first production targeted for mid-2027. Once operational, it could position Makueni as a key node in East Africa’s emerging copper value chain, attracting further investment in downstream industries such as cable manufacturing and electronics assembly.
The announcement has also renewed interest in exploring and developing other mineral deposits in the county, including iron ore, limestone and gemstones. County officials say the copper plant could serve as a catalyst for broader industrialisation in the region.
As Kenya seeks to move up the mining value chain and reduce raw commodity exports, the proposed Makueni copper plant represents a concrete step toward realising that goal. If successful, it could become a model for other counties with untapped mineral resources.
