President William Ruto has described the launch of the Vertically Integrated Steel Industry in Tororo, Uganda, as a defining moment for Africa’s industrialisation, calling it a bold demonstration of regional cooperation and economic ambition.
Speaking at the event on Sunday, Ruto said the project represents far more than the commissioning of a factory, framing it instead as a new, audacious chapter in Africa’s industrialisation ambitions.
Ruto praised the initiative spearheaded by industrialist Dr. Narendra Raval of the Devki Group, as the product of visionary leadership and long-standing cross-border collaboration.
He recalled discussions dating back to the project’s inception and noted that its realisation reflects a shared commitment between Kenya and Uganda.
The President also saluted Rwanda’s President Paul Kagame for his sustained advocacy of regional integration within the East African Community (EAC), saying Kagame’s leadership helped create an environment where large-scale industrial ventures can thrive.
“The future of Africa rests neither in isolationism nor competition, but in cooperation and collaboration,” Ruto said.
Emphasising the importance of cross-border industrial value chains, Ruto said Kenya’s support of the Tororo steel facility aligns with its broader goal of anchoring regional industrial integration.
He said Kenya envisions an East Africa where shared infrastructure, harmonised industrial policies, and coordinated value addition drive sustainable growth.
The Tororo plant, according to Ruto, is expected to significantly reshape regional supply chains.
The factory currently employs more than 400 workers, with projections to expand to 20,000 across East Africa by 2027.
Beyond direct employment, the project is poised to unlock opportunities in transport, energy, construction, and services through cross-border supply contracts and joint ventures.
Ruto hailed Raval as a distinguished Kenyan industrialist whose dedication and investment have brought the project to fruition.
He said the steel sector is increasingly central to Africa’s development trajectory, particularly as the continent scales up infrastructure and manufacturing.
Citing market trends, the President said Africa’s steel consumption reached 39.5 million tonnes in 2024 and is projected to rise to 52 million tonnes by 2034.
With 20 to 25 billion tonnes of proven and probable iron ore reserves, Ruto said the region is well positioned to meet rising domestic demand and compete on the global stage.
Ruto added that the Tororo steel project is a testament to Africa’s capacity for self-reliance and innovation, aligning the development with the African Union’s Agenda 2063 and the objectives of the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA).
He said such investments strengthen the continent’s industrial base, enhance value addition, and deepen regional integration.
The President reaffirmed Kenya’s commitment to expand economic cooperation within the EAC, saying the Tororo milestone demonstrates what the region can achieve through unity.
“Kenya stands ready to work hand in hand with Uganda, Rwanda, and all our EAC partners to transform today’s milestone into tomorrow’s prosperity,” he said.
