Kenya’s First Gemology Facility Launched at Taita Taveta National Polytechnic.
The National Government has inaugurated a Sh47 million gemology laboratory at Taita Taveta National Polytechnic (TTNP), marking Kenya’s first facility of its kind.
This initiative aims to address the skills gap in gemstone identification, grading, and value addition.
The lab positions TTNP as a center of excellence in gemology, equipping graduates to meet global industry standards.
Dr. Esther Muoria, Principal Secretary (PS) for Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET), emphasized the government’s dedication to empowering youth and artisanal miners.
She stated that TTNP must maximize the facility’s potential, calling for increased student enrolment from the current 34 to at least 200.
TTNP, currently hosting 3,400 students, was urged to expand its reach and ensure it meets its national polytechnic mandate.
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The government targets two million TVET students nationwide by June next year. Dr. Muoria stressed the importance of TTNP’s role in achieving this milestone, particularly by attracting more students from Taita Taveta County.
Benefits for Artisanal Miners
Taita Taveta County, rich in over 40 high-value gemstones like sapphire, garnets, and tourmaline, faces challenges such as traditional mining tools, lack of training, and limited market access.
The new facility aims to address these issues by providing technical training, health and safety standards, and market access skills for miners.
| Challenges for Miners | Solutions Offered |
| Use of traditional tools | Training on suitable mining practices |
| Lack of safety standards | Health and safety training |
| Limited market access | Knowledge on accessing competitive markets |
The PS highlighted that the facility is already connecting miners to international markets, such as Canada, ensuring fair value for their work.
She also called for the elimination of middlemen who exploit miners, particularly women, by paying them low prices.
Industry Collaboration and Certification
Dr. Muoria directed reforms in TVET examination processes, insisting on the involvement of industry players.
She criticized outdated assessment models and emphasized that 50% of TVET training must occur within the industry to ensure practical skill acquisition.
As a qualification-awarding body, TTNP was urged to align curricula, training, and assessments with industry standards.
The PS also encouraged regional industries to support employee certification through the Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL) program, which validates informal skills.
The PS noted that the global mining industry is observing Kenya’s progress, positioning TTNP to compete with leading mining nations like Zimbabwe and South Africa. The facility’s success could establish Kenya as a global leader in gemology.
The government is developing a funding framework for TVET institutions. A proposed model is under review by the Cabinet to ensure financial sustainability, with implementation expected before the end of the year.
Local Government Support
Taita Taveta Governor Andrew Mwadime described the facility as transformative for the county’s mining sector. As a miner himself, he acknowledged the knowledge gap the new equipment addresses.
He praised the collaboration between TTNP, Taita Taveta University, and the Ministry of Education, expressing optimism for the county’s future.
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The Governor highlighted the revenue-generating potential of the lab and its capacity to add value to gemstones, creating opportunities for local communities. He called for continued cooperation to realize the county’s vision.
Overview of the Facility
| Key Details | Description |
|---|---|
| Cost | Sh47 million |
| Support | Young Africa Works and MasterCard Foundation via CICAN |
| Training Levels | Levels 4, 5, and 6 in gemology |
| Current Enrolment | 34 students |
Conclusion
The launch of the gemology lab at TTNP represents a significant milestone for Kenya’s TVET sector and mining industry. By bridging skill gaps, empowering artisanal miners, and fostering industry collaboration, the facility is set to unlock immense potential for the region and the country.
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