Kenya has a strong extractives sector, though corruption and smuggling have prevented resources from truly benefitting all citizens. Over the past decade, significant structural and economic reforms have fed Kenya’s economic growth. Increased spending on health and education has helped to reduce child mortality, achieve near universal primary school enrolment, and narrow gender gaps in education. Yet poverty and inequality continue to impact a significant part of the population. High unemployment, crime, and the effects of climate change—including frequent drought—put Kenyans at risk. Other environmental issues including deforestation, soil erosion, flooding, poaching, and pollution increase insecurity. Artisanal mining is an important contributor to Kenya’s mineral wealth, with some estimating over 100,000 Kenyans directly involved in the sector. The country is also a major transit hub for natural resources being transported from the Great Lakes region to international destinations. Kenya is engaged in efforts to transform its natural resource management systems. Kenya is a member of the International Conference on the Great Lakes Region (ICGLR) and in 2010, the country’s President signed the Lusaka Declaration with 11 other Heads of State approving the Regional Initiative against the Illegal Exploitation of Natural Resources (RINR).

Resources

Kenya’s key natural resources include gold, iron, steel, titanium, gemstones, water, and wildlife.