Global powers’ US$62 billion rare earth hunt stokes fear in Kenya

South China Morning PostCenterEN 1 min read 100% complete by Agence France-PresseOctober 26, 2025 at 03:19 AM

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Global powers including the United States and China are showing interest in rare earth minerals found in Kenya's Mrima Hill forest near the Indian Ocean coastline. The area is estimated to hold deposits worth US$62.4 billion, rich in niobium and other critical minerals essential for hi-tech and low-carbon industries. This interest has sparked division and suspicion among local communities in five nearby villages. In June, a U.S. official visited Mrima Hill, while attempts by Chinese nationals to visit were reportedly thwarted. The U.S. government under President Trump prioritized securing such critical minerals through diplomatic efforts across Africa.

Key Topics & Entities

Juma Koja 30% Democratic Republic of Congo 40% Marc Dillard 40% Pacific Wildcat Resources 50% Donald Trump 50% Cortec Mining Kenya 60% China 60% Mrima Hill ×270% US ×270% Kenya ×480%

Keywords

rare earths 100% kenya 90% global powers 80% mrima hill 70% critical minerals 60% low-carbon industries 50% hi-tech industries 50% niobium 40% cortec mining kenya 40%