A Chinese firm has been given the nod to commence mining of diatomite after the National Environment Management Authority (Nema) gave the company a clean bill of health.
The authority also cleared the project as a viable undertaking.
Chuanshan International Mining Company was issued with the Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) certificate last week, thereby giving the Sh6 billion project the go-ahead.
The clearance follows the signing of an agreement between the national government through Baringo County government, which holds the land in trust for the community.
The new development in Kaboryon, Tiaty, will see the extraction of 200,000 tonnes of diatomite ore per year.
The company holds 202 square kilometres of land rich in diatomite and non-metallic gem minerals near the border of Tiaty and Baringo North sub-counties.
"The mining company does not own the land but has entered into agreement with the village elders at the proposed site and also has consent from the Baringo county government, which holds it in trust for the local community," read part of a report filed with Nema.
Diatomite is a white sedimentary rock occurring from fossilised remains of diatoms (single-celled aquatic algae).
The mineral has multiple uses including being a filter for beverages, filler in paints and cement, an absorbent for industrial spills and an abrasive in toothpaste.
Speaking during the signing ceremony at the Kenya School of Government last week, Governor Benjamin Cheboi said the county was placing a lot of emphasis on attracting local, inter-county and international investment.
He said the signing of the MoU was a significant investment step and that the mining would create employment for local residents as well as boost development in Tiaty and Baringo North.
Mr Cheboi said a resource mapping exercise to profile the county's natural wealth was under way.
"The project is expected to go a long way in improving the socio-economic standing of the community and the entire county," he said.
Chuanshan International Company Director Li Song said the firm plans to put up two diatomite plants within the next two years.
The mining is also expected to create 300 direct skilled employment for the locals.
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Community chairman Joseph Lotodo assured the investor of the local's support, adding that the venture would go a long way in fostering peaceful co-existence.
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