New Delhi, Sept. 8 -- Kenyan President William Ruto has withdrawn Tata Group's century-old concession to mine near Tanzania. His decision has divided communities around Lake Magadi, where the Indian company produces soda ash.

Kenya ranks fourth globally in natural soda ash production, contributing around 1%. Tata's operation exported about $57 million ( Rs.538 crore) worth of soda ash last year. According to the BBC, the number was $78.7 million in 2024. The company also supplies Kenya's water utilities, showing how the dispute extends beyond export earnings.

Ruto wants Kenya to earn more from its natural resources through further local manufacturing. He has asked Tata Chemicals Magadi to leave, accusing it of delivering insufficient be...