Kenya Cracks Down on Unrefined Gold Exports, Prioritizes Domestic Processing

Kenya's President William Ruto has announced plans to ban the export of unrefined gold, requiring it to be processed domestically instead. This move aims to retain more value within the Kenyan economy and formalize a mining sector that is still largely dominated by small-scale operators.

The Central Bank of Kenya will become the primary buyer of locally mined gold, allowing it to purchase gold for its reserves while providing greater visibility on prices and trade flows. Three refineries are expected to provide the necessary processing capacity, with one facility under development in Kakamega and two others in Nairobi.

The ban is not limited to gold and will also target resources such as coltan and rare earth elements. This decision comes as part of Kenya's strategy to local process critical minerals, which has been emphasized by the government. The US recently announced its support for Kenyan processing capabilities, particularly around rare earth and niobium resources.

Ruto had previously called for an end to exporting raw products and minerals only to re-import them in processed form, as seen on October 1, 2025.