Construction of a KSh50 billion cement manufacturing plant by Devki Group in Ngaaie, Mwingi North, is underway, with the facility expected to begin operations by mid-2027 and inject fresh momentum into Kitui County’s industrial and economic development.
Devki Group Executive Chairman Dr Narendra Raval said the investment will create employment opportunities, stimulate local businesses and improve livelihoods for communities living around the project. The plant is being established in an area endowed with extensive limestone deposits, positioning Kitui as a potential major hub for cement production.
Raval said thousands of local residents are already benefiting from employment and emerging business opportunities linked to the ongoing construction. Once operational and fully established, the factory is expected to generate additional direct and indirect jobs while creating opportunities for transporters, suppliers, traders and other enterprises.
The cement plant is also expected to bring production closer to consumers in the region, with Raval saying increased local production could contribute to reducing the cost of cement by cutting the distance between manufacturers and markets.
Beyond the factory, Devki Group is rolling out community initiatives as part of its commitment to supporting residents around its operations. Speaking at Kalonzo Musyoka Secondary School, Raval said the company plans to support the construction of modern classrooms and an administration block as part of efforts to improve the learning environment.
The company is also connecting the school to a reliable water supply and plans to introduce a school feeding programme, with the initiative expected to be extended to other neighbouring schools. The interventions are aimed at improving access to essential services while ensuring local communities benefit from the investment.
The multi-billion-shilling project comes as Kitui seeks to harness its mineral resources to drive industrialisation, create employment and expand economic opportunities. Raval said Devki’s broader objective is to improve the lives of residents while making the Ngaaie investment a catalyst for wider economic growth across Mwingi North and Kitui County.
