President Ruto Inaugurates Devki Iron Ore Pelletization Plant
“We are determined to make Kenya a global player in industrial production, and facilities like this are a step in the right direction,” he added.
President Ruto inaugurates the Devki Iron Ore Pelletization Plant in Taita Taveta. Photo/William Ruto.
President William Ruto underscored the importance of industrial expansion as he officially commissioned the KSh11 billion Devki Iron Ore Pelletization Plant in Manga, Taita Taveta County.
The groundbreaking facility is the first of its kind in East and Central Africa, marking a milestone in Kenya’s drive toward self-sufficiency in manufacturing.
Speaking during the event, Ruto highlighted the transformative potential of the plant in reducing dependency on imported steel products.
“The expansion of industries will boost local manufacturing and reduce dependency on imported products such as steel,” he said.
The Devki Iron Ore Pelletization Plant is set to revolutionize the steel industry in Kenya and the broader region.
Currently, iron ore mined in Taita Taveta is shipped abroad for processing by multinational companies.
Once operational, the new facility will process all iron ore locally, adding value and creating opportunities for employment and industrial growth.
“This plant is a testament to our commitment to transforming the local economy,” Ruto stated. “It will not only cut costs associated with exports and imports but also position Kenya as a regional hub for steel production.”
The project is expected to create hundreds of jobs during its construction and operational phases, providing opportunities for local communities and spurring economic growth in the region.
Additionally, the availability of locally processed steel will support infrastructure development, including housing and industrial projects, at more competitive prices.
The president reaffirmed the government’s commitment to supporting such initiatives by offering favorable policies and incentives to investors. He also praised Kenyan billionaire Narendra Raval, the chairman of Devki Group, for his role in pioneering this transformative project.
Vision for Kenya’s Industrial Growth
Ruto emphasized that the launch of the Devki plant aligns with his administration’s vision to enhance local manufacturing as part of the “Kenya Kwanza” agenda.
“We are determined to make Kenya a global player in industrial production, and facilities like this are a step in the right direction,” he added.
The commissioning of the Devki Iron Ore Pelletization Plant marks a critical step in reducing Kenya’s trade deficit, boosting the local economy, and positioning the country as a leader in industrialization across East Africa.
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