KALOLENI, Kenya — Mining Cabinet Secretary Hassan Joho and Kilifi Governor Gideon Mung’aro have ordered the immediate closure of Simba Cement’s mining operations in Kaloleni, citing environmental violations and failure to comply with legal and regulatory obligations.
The directive was issued on Monday during an impromptu inspection of the company’s mining site in Kambe Ribe, Rabai Sub-county.
Both leaders condemned the cement manufacturer for what they termed as blatant disregard for environmental safety, community welfare, and transparency.
“I am disappointed by what I have heard. If there is any company that has failed to support Kilifi, it is Simba Cement,” Governor Mung’aro said. “As of today, their operations are closed.”
Company Accused of Neglecting Community, Flouting Rules
Mung’aro accused the company of not contributing to local development despite years of commercial activity in the area.
He also called for the dissolution of the local monitoring committee overseeing the mining project, alleging collusion with the company to sideline community concerns.
The governor directed Kilifi County environment officers to serve the company with an official notice to cease operations immediately.
CS Joho backed the move, noting that multiple promises made by the company had gone unfulfilled.
He instructed Mining Principal Secretary Harry Kimutai to spearhead the formation of a new, credible oversight committee to enforce compliance with all environmental and mining regulations.
“The first step to solving these problems is forming the right committee. If we get that right, the rest will fall into place,” Joho said. “I’ve returned to assess whether agreements have been honoured—and they haven’t.”
Residents, Activists Welcome Crackdown
The decision has been praised by residents and environmental groups who have long protested against Simba Cement’s operations over issues such as air pollution, land degradation, and lack of tangible benefits to the local community.
The shutdown signals a renewed commitment by both national and county governments to ensure that mining operations respect environmental standards and prioritize the well-being of host communities.
Joho has in recent months intensified calls to dismantle illegal mining cartels and enhance transparency in the sector, positioning himself as a reformist force in Kenya’s extractives industry.
