President William Ruto has presided over the groundbreaking ceremony of a KSh70 billion cement and clinker manufacturing plant in Ngaaie, Mwingi North, Kitui County, marking a major milestone in Kenya’s industrialization agenda.

The project, undertaken by Devki Group through National Cement Company, is expected to transform Kitui into a major manufacturing hub while unlocking the economic potential of the region’s vast limestone deposits.

Speaking during the ceremony on Tuesday, October 27, 2026, President Ruto emphasized the government's commitment to attracting investments that create employment opportunities, stimulate economic growth and improve livelihoods.

"By producing clinker locally, we retain more value within our economy, create skill jobs in our country, build technical expertise among the young people and strengthen our industrial capacity and create wealth in our nation," he said.

The President reiterated that the investment would create approximately 4,000 jobs, offering employment opportunities to young people while supporting local businesses, transporters and suppliers.

"We are turning this country into a construction site because we want to create more opportunities for work for the young people. I want to assure all investors in Kenya that they have the support of the government," said the Head of State.

Once operational, the factory is expected to increase domestic cement and clinker production, reduce dependence on imports and strengthen Kenya’s construction industry.

Devki Group Chairman Dr. Narendra Raval (popularly known as Guru) reaffirmed the company's commitment to expanding local manufacturing and supporting Kenya's industrial growth.

The investment is also expected to stimulate economic activity across Kitui County and the wider Ukambani region.

The groundbreaking represents another step towards the government's ambition of promoting industrialization, attracting private investment and creating sustainable economic opportunities for Kenyans.