Devki Iron Ore Plant to Boost Local steel Industry and Development

Taita Taveta County, 

Tuesday, 3 December, 2024 

McCreadie Andias 

President William Ruto has officially commissioned the KSh11 billion Devki Iron Ore Pelletization Plant in Manga, Taita-Taveta County, marking a milestone in Kenya’s industrialization efforts. 

The plant, poised to be the first of its kind in East and Central Africa, is expected to significantly transform the local steel manufacturing sector and reduce Kenya's reliance on imported steel products.

This state-of-the-art facility will process all the iron ore mined in Taita-Taveta, which has traditionally been exported for processing by multinational companies.

The move is seen as a major step towards boosting local manufacturing capacity and ensuring that Kenya retains more value from its mineral resources. By processing iron ore locally, the plant will not only cut costs but also ensure a steady supply of steel for various industries in the country.

Once fully operational, the Devki Iron Ore Pelletization Plant is expected to create over 2,000 jobs for Kenyans, contributing significantly to the local economy and improving livelihoods in the region. 

The facility will also pave the way for the development of a robust steel production sector that can meet both domestic and regional demand, reducing the need for imports.

The establishment of the plant is in line with the government’s broader vision to promote industrialization and economic growth through the development of local industries. 

The government’s efforts to encourage private investment in key sectors like manufacturing, particularly in steel production, will enhance Kenya's competitiveness on the global stage.