President William Ruto announced the planned factory launch during his development tour of Kitui.
President William Ruto says Devki Group’s planned factory in Ngaaie will create jobs and support local trade.
President William Ruto has announced plans to launch a Sh70 billion Kitui cement factory on Tuesday, October 27. He said the Devki Group project in Ngaaie, Mwingi North Constituency, would create 4,000 jobs.
Speaking at Tseikuru grounds on Monday, Ruto said the investment would offer young people employment and stimulate local trade. The cement and clinker factory will use locally sourced materials to manufacture clinker, a key ingredient in cement production.
Kitui cement factory to offer employment opportunities
Ruto urged young people seeking work to pursue opportunities at the factory following its launch. He also encouraged them to explore business opportunities arising from government-backed development projects.
Alongside the jobs pledge, the President warned against attempts to extort investors through bribes, brokerage fees and shareholding demands. He said the government would act against individuals involved in such practices.
Ruto said some investors had previously withdrawn from Kenya because individuals demanded bribes and stakes in their businesses. However, he assured investors that the government would protect their investments and improve the business environment.
The President said his administration remained committed to supporting investment, employment and economic growth.
Hostels and classrooms for Tseikuru Polytechnic
Earlier, Ruto launched construction of student hostels at Tseikuru National Polytechnic in Kora, Mwingi North. The Sh145 million project will provide accommodation for 340 students at the institution, which has about 1,600 learners.
He also announced plans for another hostel block to accommodate more students. In addition, the President outlined plans to build 10 classrooms to expand learning opportunities and access to technical training.
The education projects form part of government efforts to equip young people with skills for employment and entrepreneurship.
Sh5 billion road project in Mwingi North
During the same tour, Ruto launched construction of the 55-kilometre Twimiwa-Tseikuru-Usweni road in Mwingi North Constituency. The Sh5 billion project aims to improve connectivity across northern Kitui.
It is also expected to connect farming and pastoralist communities with markets, essential services and economic opportunities. Ruto directed the contractor to include tarmacking a three-kilometre stretch leading to Wiper Democratic Movement leader Kalonzo Musyoka’s home.
The President said the road would help address historical disparities in infrastructure development and improve economic access. Labour Cabinet Secretary Alfred Mutua and several Members of Parliament accompanied him on the development tour.
