Devki Group plans to construct two plants in Kenya

Devki Group plans to construct two new cement plants in Kenya, according to Construction Kenya. The first plant is expected to have a 0.75Mta capacity and be located on a 20ha plot in Mariakani, Kilifi County, while the second will have the same capacity and be situated in Njoro, Nakuru. Each of the two plants are expected to represent an investment of KES3bn (US$29.2m).

The proposed facilities would help lower the price of cement and shorten the distance covered by delivery vehicles, according to a statement made by Narendra Raval, chairman of Devki Group. The Njoro plant would provide employment for 900 people during its construction.

The plans arrive after increased competition for customers in the Kenyan cement market. Prices have remained stable in the country for the past decade, keeping to KES630-700 for a 50kg bag. However, an increased level of cheaper cement threatens to change the market.

Despite this issue, several cement companies are looking to upgrade their capacities in the country. Savannah Cement is looking to expand its Athi River facility from 1.2Mta to 2.4Mta by 2019. While Bamburi and ARM are expected to add 900,000t and 650,000t, respectively.