The operationalization of the multi-billion cement factory in West Pokot County comes as a big boon to the North Rift Economic Bloc, Uasin Gishu Governor Dr Jonathan Bii has said.

Speaking as he joined President Dr William Ruto for the launch of Devki Group-owned cement clinker in Sebit, West Pokot County, Dr Bii said the region stands to benefit in many aspects.

Governor Dr Bii said the factory will offer employment for tens of thousands of residents of Noreb-member counties, that is both directly and indirectly.

Dr Bii also the availability of cement in North Rift will have a positive effect on the industrial and overall development of North Rift. The availability of cement in Pokot County will bring down the cost of construction by a considerable margin, he said.

“I’m also happy because as Uasin Gishu County we have an upcoming Cemtech sister company in Kamagut Ward that upon completion will help us greatly, especially in the creation of jobs,” said Dr Bii.

Devki Group Chief Executive Officer, Dr. Narendra Raval (Guru) said: “We are planning to inject sh250m dollars in other plants in Kitui, Nakuru and Eldoret.”

President William Ruto urged the investors to grab manufacturing investment opportunities available in Kenya noting that his government plans to make the country an export hub.

Dr Raval said already the company has already employed at least 4000 youth from the region changing the perception of Pokot and the narrative on cattle rustling as a result of the company’s existence in their locality.

West Pokot Governor Simon Kachapin, Cabinet Secretaries for Investment, Trade and Industry Rebecca Miano(Industry) David Chirchir(Energy) Kipchumba Murkomen (Roads), Salim Mvurya (Mining) other senior government dignitaries including Chief Officer for Trade Geoffrey Tanui and Licensing and Compliance Director David Kebenei were present during the event.