Chuanshan Mining Row Clouds Kenya Rare Earth Tender

Governance concerns have emerged around Chuanshan International Mining Company, potentially affecting its position in Kenya’s rare earth minerals race as the government advances a new tender for the Mrima Hill deposits.

The company, once seen as a strong player in the extractives sector, is now linked to allegations of forged court documents and internal leadership disputes claims that remain under investigation and have not been tested in court.

Documents reviewed by journalists indicate that a filing referenced as E161/2025 purported to declare founding director Han Ke deceased, a move that would have enabled changes in the firm’s shareholding.

“Central to the dispute is a court document referenced as E161/2025 which purportedly declared Han dead, thereby paving the way for a change in the company’s shareholding structure.”

“Subsequent verification efforts revealed that the alleged death certificate and court ruling were forgeries.”

ALSO READ: Honda Backs Kenya Plant for Desert Sand Road Tech

Kenyan authorities flagged the documents as suspicious, prompting investigations to verify their authenticity.

Preliminary findings indicate the records used to effect ownership changes may not have been legitimate.

The developments mark a shift for Chuanshan, which had established operations in Baringo County, including a diatomite processing facility credited with creating jobs and supporting local economic activity.

The firm had also participated in government-linked mining initiatives and entered community agreements tied to employment and industrial development.

The controversy comes as Kenya positions itself to attract investment in critical minerals, amid growing global demand and competition among international players.

While the allegations remain unresolved, the situation could weigh on investor confidence and raise broader questions about corporate governance in the sector.

The government has previously highlighted mining as a key pillar of industrialisation and economic growth.

For communities in Baringo, the dispute introduces uncertainty over the continuity of development commitments tied to the company’s projects.

Chuanshan had not responded to requests for comment by press time, as investigations continue.