About Kaumu Mining Site
Discover the rich mineral resources and geological significance of Kenya's premier gold and coltan mining location
The Kaumu Mining Site, located in the mineral-rich Taita Taveta County of Kenya, represents one of Minex Mining Company's most significant discoveries. Spanning over 150 km², the site has established itself as a premier source of high-quality gold and coltan in East Africa.
Our operations at Kaumu combine traditional mining expertise with cutting-edge technology, including advanced geochemical analysis (AAS, XRF, XRD) and satellite imaging for precise mineral mapping. The site's geological profile shows exceptional mineral concentration, particularly in gold-bearing quartz veins and coltan-rich pegmatites.
Since commencement in 2012, Kaumu has produced over 5,000 kg of gold and 800 tons of coltan, contributing significantly to Kenya's mining sector. Our proximity to the Mombasa port (250km) ensures efficient export logistics for international markets.
The site features state-of-the-art processing facilities, including our specialized coltan washing bay, and maintains ISO 14001 certification for environmental management. We employ over 300 local community members, with comprehensive training programs in modern mining techniques.
Mineral Wealth of Kaumu
Our site contains world-class deposits of precious and strategic minerals
Gold
High-purity gold (92-98% Au) in quartz veins, with average yield of 15g/ton. Used in jewelry, electronics, and as a stable investment asset. Our 2023 production reached 1,200kg.
Coltan
High-grade columbite-tantalite (65% Ta₂O₅) essential for electronics manufacturing. Annual production of 300 tons supports global capacitor and semiconductor industries.
Rare Earth Elements
Significant deposits of neodymium and lanthanum crucial for renewable energy technologies, with estimated reserves of 50,000 tons.
Mica
High-quality muscovite mica with excellent dielectric properties, producing 500 tons annually for electrical insulation applications.
Feldspar
Potassium-rich feldspar deposits (1.2 million tons) serving Kenya's growing ceramics and glass manufacturing sectors.
Additional Resources
Copper (12,000 tons), iron ore (8 million tons), and gem-quality garnets identified in recent exploratory drilling.
Mineral Quality and Global Standards
Kaumu minerals consistently meet international benchmarks: gold at 92-98% purity (London Bullion Market standards), coltan at 65% Ta₂O₅ content (exceeding typical industrial grade of 30%).
Our on-site laboratory conducts daily quality checks using XRF spectrometry, with monthly audits by SGS Kenya. All export shipments include certified assay reports.
The unique geological formation of Kaumu produces minerals with exceptional characteristics - our gold shows remarkable brightness (85-90% reflectivity) and coltan has low uranium/thorium content (<50ppm), making it ideal for high-tech applications.
Coltan Washing Operations
Specialized processing of coltan at our state-of-the-art Kaumu facility
The Kaumu Coltan Washing Bay represents a $2.5 million investment in modern mineral processing technology. Our facility processes 50 tons of raw coltan daily through a 5-stage washing and concentration process:
- Primary screening (10mm mesh)
- Log washing for clay removal
- Spiral concentration (specific gravity separation)
- High-pressure rinsing
- Electrostatic separation (for final purity)
Our closed-loop water system recycles 90% of processing water, with advanced sediment control protecting local waterways. The facility operates at 85% energy efficiency using solar-assisted power systems.
Mining Operations
Our comprehensive, responsible approach to mineral extraction at Kaumu
Kaumu operates under Kenya's Mining Act 2016 with all required licenses and environmental approvals. Our operations combine open-pit and underground methods across 12 active pits, with an average depth of 50 meters.
We maintain a 1:10 stripping ratio for overburden removal, with 85% of waste rock repurposed for onsite construction. Our processing plant achieves 92% gold recovery through cyanide leaching (meeting ICMM standards) and carbon-in-pulp extraction.
The site features:
- 200-ton per day processing capacity
- On-site assay laboratory
- Modern worker facilities with clinic
- Dedicated training center
- Environmental monitoring station
"Kaumu represents the future of responsible mining in Africa. The site's gold grades consistently exceed 15g/ton, with coltan purity unmatched in the region. Minex's investment in modern processing technology and community development sets a new standard for the industry."
Operational Highlights
- Exploration: Using drone surveys and 3D seismic mapping to identify new deposits with 90% accuracy
- Extraction: Low-impact methods reduce surface disturbance by 40% compared to conventional mining
- Processing: Our CIP gold plant recovers 92% of gold content, exceeding industry averages
- Safety: 1,000+ days without a lost-time injury through rigorous training programs
- Community: 75% of workforce from local communities, with skills development programs
Site Overview
Explore the Kaumu mining operations through our comprehensive gallery
Sustainable Mining at Kaumu
Our comprehensive approach to environmental stewardship and community development
At Kaumu, we've implemented a $3.2 million sustainability program that goes beyond compliance to create lasting positive impact. Our initiatives have reduced water usage by 60% through recycling systems and cut carbon emissions by 45% via solar hybridization.
We've rehabilitated 85 hectares of mined land, introducing native acacia and commiphora species that show 90% survival rates. Our community programs have trained 200 local farmers in sustainable agriculture and provided clean water access to 5,000 residents.
Kaumu maintains ISO 14001 environmental certification and has been recognized by the Kenya National Environment Authority for excellence in mine rehabilitation.
Land Rehabilitation
85 hectares restored using native species, with 5-year monitoring programs ensuring ecosystem recovery.
Water Management
Closed-loop systems recycle 90% of process water, with zero discharge to natural waterways.
Renewable Energy
1.2MW solar array provides 30% of site power, reducing diesel consumption by 400,000 liters/year.
Waste Reduction
85% of waste rock repurposed for construction, with comprehensive tailings management.
Community Development
$1.5 million invested in local education, healthcare, and infrastructure projects since 2015.
Safety Excellence
1,000+ days without lost-time injury through rigorous training and protective systems.
Location & Infrastructure
Strategic positioning of the Kaumu Mining Site in Kenya's mineral belt
Strategic Location Advantages
Kaumu's position in Taita Taveta County offers numerous benefits:
- Located in Kenya's mineral-rich Mozambique Belt
- 250km from Mombasa port for efficient export logistics
- Connected to national power grid with 2MW backup generators
- All-weather access roads maintained to international standards
- Proximity to Voi town (35km) for skilled labor and services
Site Infrastructure
Kaumu features world-class mining infrastructure:
- 200-ton per day processing plant
- Modern camp facilities for 300 workers
- On-site medical clinic with emergency response
- Water treatment plant (500m³/day capacity)
- Dedicated airstrip for charter flights
- Secure mineral storage and logistics center