Mui Basin

Minerals in Kitui

Mui Basin: Kitui’s Underutilized Mineralogy

The underutilized mineralogy of Kitui County has always existed, with possible deposits of gypsum, silica, gold, asbestos, epdote, graphite, iron ore and copper prospected and documented. Steps-forward in the use and exploration of these resources have pushed to the forefront the Mui Basin Coal Exploration Project, currently in the feasibility stage, and where an estimated 4 million tonnes were confirmed to exist. Mui Basin extends over an area of 600 km2 with a sediment diameter range of about 50-500 metres. The basin extents northward from Ikoo Valley towards Mwingi Town, in the north central part of Kitui County (around Miambani). A distinct feature at Mui is a magnificent elongated rock exposure about 6 kms across, north of the Mwingi-Mui-Nuu Road. This exposure feature is open to the south, but surrounded by the Nuu Hills that rise to about 1,000 ft above its floor on the remaining three sides. The road extending from A3 Thika-Garissa-Liboi Road, near Mwingi, to Mui and Nuu is the easiest way to explore the Mui Basin. It’s also accessible from Kitui through Zombe, Mutitu and Ikoo Valley.


Cottage industries play a vital role in Kenya’s economy, particularly in rural areas where they provide employment and preserve traditional skills. These small-scale, home-based enterprises are diverse and contribute significantly to local economies. Cottage industries In Kenya are diverse and integral to the cultural and economic fabric. For the travellers, these offer colourful and friendly markets.


Kitui County is a hidden gem for travelers seeking adventure, culture, and nature. With better infrastructure and marketing, it could become a key destination in Kenya’s tourism map. Known for its arid and semi-arid landscapes, rich Kamba culture, and untapped tourism potential, it is home to many unique attractions, hillscapes, scenic rock formations and valleys ideal for hiking and photography.

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What’s The Air Like In Kitui?

Climate in Kitui is generally hot and dry with little rainfall. Temperatures are high year-round, ranging between 14°C-34°C. The hotter months are September, October, January.

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