Turning extractive potential into wealth, the case of Silica sand By Chimwaga Kasimu Manga Secretary, Msambweni Sand and stone cooperative society ltd

What is silica? SILICA (from latin silex) is silicon dioxide, the main component of rocks, occurring in nature as SAND, flint, crystal etc. It’s a chemical compound that is an oxide of silicon with the chemical formula sio 2 known since ancient times. Was discovered in Kwale County in 1982 by KBL

Where is Silica sand found in Kwale? largely in MSAMBWENI SUB-COUNTY in: – MARIGIZA, – VIDUNGENI, – RAMISI, – DARIGUBE, – ESHU, – MWACHANDE, – MUHAKA In total silica sands cover an average area of 200km 2 and a depth of 20m It’s extraction can take more than 200 years. Currently, it’s extraction is via either manual scooping or use of excavators then transported to factories in Mombasa, Nairobi and Machakos counties by use of lorries

USES OF SILICA SAND EXTRACTS About 95% of silica dioxide produced is used in the construction industry e.g production of PORTLAND CEMENT. Making of glass and silicon metal. production of glass for windows, drinking glasses, Beverage bottles, etc Making of optical fiber for telecommunication Making of ceramic e.g. earthware & stoneware additive in the production of food and pharmaceutical applications especially in powdered foods or to absorb water in hydroscopic applications

Uses continued A fining agent in wine, beer and juice In pharmaceutical products, silica aids powder flow in manufacture of tablets used in the extraction of DNA and RNA In hydrated form, it’s used as toothpaste Useful in fiber form as a high temperature thermal protection fabric Used in cosmetics for its light diffusing properties and natural absorbency used as a thermal enhancement compound in ground source heat pump industries

Prospects Desire for investment in a silica sand processing industry in Msambweni where the raw material exists like the case of Base Titanium. Silica sand farm owners are already organized into a cooperative society, Msambweni sand and stone cooperative society ltd, hence providing structured and easy engagement. The cooperative society, the County Government of Kwale and an investor could jointly establish a silica sand processing facility hence share the cost of investment.

Why process silica sand in Kwale? earn foreign exchange to the County and Kenya Create employment for the local people Catalyze development of quality infrastructure like improved road network, supply of water and electricity Development of settlement around the mining areas Create markets for other commodities like food, health and education services and development of adjacent towns like the case of Magadi town. Stimulate establishment of other industries which can use silica and other by products as raw materials through industrial symbiosis save the county income that would have been used in importing silica material.

Conclusion Kwale county’s rich deposits of silica sands, hospitable people, youthful population and increased interests in the county’s extractive resources present the perfect opportunity for establishment of a silica sands processing plant in Kwale county. Coupled with availability of more power generated from sugar cane waste and the wide range os uss from silica, a silica sand processing venture in Kwale is a rewarding investment. Welcome to Kwale county, the home of silica sands