The proposal was presented by Susan Burns during the Kenya Mining Investment Conference and Expo 2026, as William Ruto encouraged participation in a new preferential trade framework.
The proposed trade zone aims to stabilise global mineral markets through price controls and tariffs, protecting resource-rich nations from manipulation.
Burns warned that many African mining projects fail due to sudden market flooding that collapses prices before production begins.
She noted that Donald Trump’s administration has mobilised over Ksh12 trillion to support mineral investments, including taking equity stakes and accelerating mining approvals.
Countries like the Democratic Republic of Congo are already benefiting.
Mrima Hill, valued at about Ksh8.1 trillion, contains rare earth elements essential for modern technology and clean energy.
With global powers, including China, showing interest, the project has become a key geopolitical contest, placing Kenya in a strategic and influential position globally.
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