Lilian Kagai Mugalla: Breaking Barriers in Kenya’s Mining Sector

Lilian Kagai Mugalla, a final-year B.Sc. Mining and Mineral Processing Engineering student at Jomo Kenyatta University of Agriculture and Technology (JKUAT), was awarded the prestigious Mining Excellence Award: Young Achiever of the Year by the Kenya Chamber of Mines (KCM). This accolade recognizes her outstanding contributions to Kenya’s mining sector, marking her as a rising star in the industry. The award ceremony held on 20th December 2024 brought together industry leaders, government representatives, and key stakeholders to celebrate individuals and organizations driving the advancement of the mining sector in Kenya.

Lilian’s impressive achievements include winning the International Day of Women in Mining (IDWIM) photo competition and securing second runners-up in the 2024 IDWIM photo campaign. Her success in the competition earned her an opportunity to pursue an intermediary course on Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) Across the Mining Value Chain, which she has successfully completed, further enhancing her expertise in sustainable mining practices.

As a leader at JKUAT, Lilian has been a vocal advocate for inclusivity, ensuring that mining engineering students are well represented in the university congress. Her passion for fostering equality and representation has captivated her peers and set a standard for leadership within the university community.

During her industrial attachment, Lilian gained hands-on experience in artisanal gold mining and quarry operations. This exposure fueled her innovative spirit, leading to the design of auxiliary ventilation equipment incorporating carbon capture technology. Her invention significantly improves air quality while reducing carbon emissions, exemplifying her commitment to sustainable and forward-thinking solutions in mining operations.

Beyond her academic and technical achievements, Lilian is a dedicated mentor, guiding fellow students seeking advice on how to build their industry networks and advance their careers. Her mentorship has inspired many at JKUAT and cemented her reputation as a role model for aspiring engineers.

Lilian is also an active volunteer at the Centre for Sustainable Mining and Environmental Conservation (CESMECC) and the Women in Mining Association (WiMA). Through her involvement, she contributes to initiatives aimed at improving Kenya’s mining industry and advocating for sustainable practices.

She recently won a free ticket to attend the Mining Indaba in South Africa through the Community Voices video competition and was also selected as a committee member for IDWIM 2025. These milestones underscore her growing influence in the global mining community and her commitment to making a lasting impact on the industry.

Lilian Kagai Mugalla’s story is a reflection of her commitment, leadership qualities, and ingenuity in finding solutions to challenges within the mining industry. She continues to push boundaries, making her an inspiration to young professionals and a beacon of progress for Kenya’s mining industry.