The national Ministry of Mining has been challenged to exploit the large volumes of diatomite in Ndeiya, Limuru Constituency.
Former Limuru MP George Nyanja said there was tonnes of diatomite in the area, which was lying idle while the mineral could earn the country millions in revenue.
Nyanja, together with Limuru MP John Kiragu showed a paper bag full of the diatomite collected from the site during a community meeting in the area.
The diatomite is located down a steep hill at 'Mwanya wa Ruhuho' area in Ndeiya, and it can be seen stretching for kilometres from up the hill from a bird's eye view.
“We need huge pulleys that will carry the diatomite up after it is exploited from down there,” said Nyanja.
He further added that interested foreign investors should be encouraged to visit the site and exploit the mineral.
Kiragu added that the diatomite was a natural resource that would improve the living standards of the people of Limuru and also contribute greatly to the country's economy.
Mary Wawira, a resident said as residents they hoped the government would soon exploit the diatomite, a process that would generate jobs for those who are jobless in the area.
Diatomite is used in manufacturing cement and also as an insecticide, and because of its abrasive form it is used in shoe polish and toothpaste.
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