[PHOTOS] Ruto, Museveni launch Devki Steel Factory in Tororo, Uganda

President William Ruto joined his Ugandan counterpart Yoweri Museveni for the groundbreaking ceremony of the Devki Steel Factory, Osukuru in Tororo District, Uganda.

Already, the Tororo factory currently employs more than 400 workers, with plans to increase the workforce to 20,000 by 2027 across its East African operations.

In his speech, Ruto noted that beyond direct job creation, the factory will open vast opportunities for companies within the EAC, particularly in the transport, energy, construction, and services sectors, through cross-border supply contracts and strategic joint ventures.

“I take this opportunity to express Kenya’s pride in celebrating the vision and enterprise of Dr Narendra Raval, a distinguished Kenyan industrialist and investor whose commitment, focus, and determination have been instrumental in bringing this industry to life,” Ruto said.

Ruto noted that the steel sector in Africa has become increasingly pivotal in fuelling economic progress throughout the continent.

“With a strong emphasis on bolstering infrastructure, advancing industrialisation, and enhancing valueadded manufacturing, the industry is instrumental in shaping Africa’s economic trajectory.”

Africa’s steel market reached a volume of 39.5 million tonnes in 2024, and is expected to hit a projected volume of 52 million tonnes by 2034, driven by bolstering infrastructure and advancing industrialisation.

With an estimated 20 to 25 billion tonnes of proven and probable iron ore reserves, Sub-Saharan Africa possesses the natural resources needed not only to meet its rapidly growing domestic demand, but also to position itself as a major global exporter.

Ruto reiterated Kenya’s readiness to continue working hand in hand with Uganda, Rwanda, and all our EAC partners to transform today’s milestone into tomorrow’s prosperity.