The construction of an iron-ore processing plant in Voi, Taita Taveta County is set to begin following the transfer of land to the investor by the local community.
The Sh11 billion smelting facility, to be developed by Devki Group of Companies, will occupy 202.4 hectares in the Ngolia area of Voi Subcounty. This land was acquired from the Mbulia community, situated near the iron-ore-rich Kishushe region.
During the title deed handover ceremony, Mining PS Elijah Mwangi hailed the project as a significant milestone. “Value addition for minerals is crucial for job creation and empowering communities, which strengthens economic resilience in Kenya,” Mwangi remarked.
He emphasized the region’s vast potential for mining and mineral processing, given its substantial iron ore deposits. Mwangi urged the local community and leadership to collaborate with the investor to ensure timely completion of the plant.
Mwangi reassured residents that the Ministry is focused on engaging investors to establish transformative value-addition facilities across the country. The government aims to process all of Kenya’s minerals locally before export. The Ministry is also working with investors on projects for gold in Kakamega, granite in Vihiga, and fluorspar in Elgeyo Marakwet. Future investments are planned for soapstone processing in Kisii and copper in Eastern Kenya.
Business magnate Narendra Raval Guru, founder and chairman of Devki Group, committed to involving local communities and artisanal miners in the project. He pledged to provide equipment and opportunities for artisanal miners to supply raw materials to the plant. “We aim to include all artisanal miners in the area so they can benefit from the plant’s operations,” Guru said.
Governor Andrew Mwadime encouraged county leaders to support the investment and avoid divisive politics. His administration is focused on leveraging investments to boost the local economy and create job opportunities for the youth. “This substantial investment will contribute significantly to our country’s economic growth. We will provide the investor with all necessary support,” Mwadime stated.
Mwadime highlighted that the plant will drive economic transformation in the region. Voi legislator Khamis Chome praised Devki Group’s investment, noting its potential to create jobs and contribute to economic development. He also urged the investor to consider using local products during construction and to engage in corporate social responsibility initiatives.
Other leaders present included Deputy Governor Christine Kilalo, Senator Johnes Mwaruma, and Wundanyi MP Danson Mwashako.
