Kenya has launched a competitive bidding process for its Mrima Hill rare earths deposit, estimated at $62 billion, as global powers vie for access to critical minerals. The deposit, located near Mombasa, contains niobium, yttrium, and other rare earth elements essential for defense, electronics, and aerospace industries. Hassan Ali Joho, cabinet secretary for mines, confirmed over 10 international companies have expressed interest.

China's dominance in rare earth supply chains has intensified competition, with the US, Australia, and other nations seeking alternative sources. The Kenyan government revoked Cortec Mining's previous permit after a legal dispute, setting the stage for a fresh tender. Companies must commit to local processing to win the bid, aligning with Kenya's strategy to develop untapped mineral resources including gold, lithium, and tantalum.

Development faces challenges including radioactive thorium content and the site's location in a sacred forest for the Digo community. Industry experts warn the thorium levels could complicate extraction. Despite geopolitical pressures, Joho emphasized Kenya's "Kenya Kwanzaa" approach, prioritizing national interests while remaining open to bids from any nation. The outcome could position Kenya as a strategic minerals supplier and attract broader mining investment to East Africa.