By Andrew Irumba
Uganda has taken a significant step toward becoming a regional steel powerhouse following the groundbreaking of the Devki Iron and Steel Plant in Tororo District, an investment hailed as a major milestone in East Africa’s industrialization agenda.
The ceremony was presided over by President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni, alongside Kenya’s President William Ruto and Rwanda’s President Paul Kagame. The event marks the official start of construction for the 600,000-ton-capacity steel complex, developed by Devki Steel Mills (U) Ltd and National Cement Company.
Speaking at the event, Minister of Energy and Mineral Development Hon. Dr. Ruth Nankabirwa described the project as “a historic turning point in Uganda’s mineral-based industrialization.” She emphasised that the steel plant directly aligns with Uganda’s Tenfold Growth Strategy, NDP IV, the National Industrial Policy, and Vision 2040 goals of converting natural resources into higher-value manufactured products.
“This project represents our commitment to transforming Uganda from an exporter of raw materials to a competitive producer of finished industrial goods,” Nankabirwa said. She noted that Uganda now boasts over 318 million tonnes of high-grade hematite iron ore in the southwest and 111 million tonnes of magnetite in the east, resources that solidify Uganda’s position as a future regional steel hub.
The Minister highlighted that the mineral development agreement with Devki, signed in April 2025, is a testament to strong bilateral cooperation between Uganda and Kenya, complementing other regional initiatives such as the East African Pipeline, natural gas pipeline projects with Tanzania, and the planned refined products pipeline linking Kenya, Uganda, and Rwanda.
The Devki plant will produce iron with 94-99% purity, steel billets, and multiple steel products including bars, coils, plates, and wire materials. Once operational, it will become Uganda’s third integrated steel plant, joining Tembo Steel in Iganga and Abyssinia Steel in Jinja.
According to Nankabirwa, the government has already issued Devki four exploration licenses in Kabale, Kisoro, and Rubanda, enabling the company to expand its resource base. She reaffirmed the Ministry’s commitment to supporting the project through infrastructure development, geological data access, regulatory facilitation, and community sensitization.
She further outlined planned government interventions, including:
- Enhancing electricity, road, and water access for large mineral projects
- Increasing geological surveys to attract investors
- Supporting national participation through the Uganda National Mining Company’s 15% equity in strategic ventures
- Strengthening regulations and capacity to manage major mining investments
- Organizing artisanal and small-scale miners nationwide to safeguard the sector
Nankabirwa commended Devki Group Chairman Narendra Guru Raval for choosing Uganda as an investment destination, praising his partnership-driven approach. She also thanked local leaders and communities for embracing the project.
Minister saluted President Museveni for “visionary leadership that continues to unlock Uganda’s mineral wealth,” and applauded Presidents Ruto and Kagame for their continued regional cooperation.
“With this groundbreaking, we move closer to a future where Uganda leads in steel production, industrial growth, and meaningful job creation for our people,” she said.
Nankabirwa’s Full Speech Below
Ministers Speech 18.10.2025 DEVKI Ground breaking (3) – revised
