Tata Chemicals Magadi Limited is seeking new mining rights over 127 square kilometres in Kajiado County, a move that could extend the life of its trona operations and support its shift toward low-carbon production at Lake Magadi.
- •The twin licence applications, published in Kenya Gazette Notice Nos. 15009 and 15010, cover two adjoining areas measuring 63.56 km² and 63.46 km². Both seek approval to mine soda and soda ash under the Mining Act (Cap. 306) and are open for public comment for 42 days.
- •If approved, the licences will expand Tata Chemicals’ existing concession around Lake Magadi, where it has operated since 1911 as Kenya’s sole soda-ash producer.
- •The applications were submitted to the Ministry of Mining, Blue Economy and Maritime Affairs and signed by Cabinet Secretary Hassan Joho. Public objections may be filed within 42 days from the publication date of September 18, 2025.
Tata Chemicals Magadi, a subsidiary of India’s Tata Chemicals Limited, runs one of the world’s oldest natural soda-ash operations. The company supplies both local and export markets, with soda ash used in glass, detergents, and chemicals. It is also a major employer in Kajiado County, where the local economy depends heavily on mining and related services.
The new licence requests align with Tata Chemicals’ plan to modernise its plant and cut carbon emissions. The company has faced disputes with the Kajiado County Government over unpaid land rates and environmental issues, but insists it has complied with all legal and regulatory standards.
According to the Mining Cadastre portal, the proposed licence zones lie within Magadi’s current concession area. The additional 127 km² would strengthen Tata Chemicals’ access to key trona-bearing deposits along the lake basin.
Soda ash is among Kenya’s top mineral exports, generating vital foreign exchange. Output fell during the pandemic but has since stabilised, supported by stronger demand from glass and chemical producers.
