- The United States is stepping up interest in Kenya’s mineral sector.
- Nairobi is hosting a high-level supply chains conference on January 30.
- A US-supported group wants to develop the Mrima Hill mineral site.
- Washington is rolling out new investment structures across Africa.
The United States has increased its engagement with Kenya as it looks to secure access to critical minerals needed for modern industries.
The renewed focus is part of a wider plan by the Trump administration to reduce reliance on China and strengthen alternative global supply routes.
On January 30, Kenya is hosting the US–Kenya Critical Supply Chains Conference in Nairobi.
The closed-door meeting brings together selected investors and officials, with the goal of linking American funding to Kenya’s deposits of rare earth minerals and niobium.
At the centre of the discussions is the Mrima Hill site in Kwale County.
A US-supported group known as the Mrima Earth Consortium has submitted a development proposal to the National Mining Corporation (Namico). The area is believed to hold minerals worth tens of billions of shillings, used in defence equipment, aircraft technology, and electric vehicles.
A day earlier, on January 29, 2026, the United States and the African Union Commission unveiled a new body to support large-scale projects across the continent.
The US–African Union Strategic Infrastructure and Investment Working Group will channel American capital into African Union-backed programmes, with a strong focus on energy links and critical minerals.
To support this strategy, the U.S. International Development Finance Corporation has appointed a new Regional Managing Director based in Nairobi.
The agency currently holds investments exceeding $10 billion across Sub-Saharan Africa, targeting sectors considered vital to U.S. economic and security interests, including mining.
The renewed push follows an executive order signed by President Donald Trump on January 15.
The directive calls for the United States to cut dependence on Chinese mineral imports by forming partnerships with countries viewed as stable and reliable.
Analysts say the approach marks a major change in US–Africa relations.
Instead of traditional aid, Washington is now prioritising trade, investment, and shared economic interests, with Kenya emerging as a key regional base for East Africa.
With its mineral potential and position in the region, Kenya is increasingly being viewed as a long-term partner in global supply chains.
The latest developments place the country at the centre of a broader contest shaping future energy, technology, and security industries.
