President Museveni and his Kenyan counterpart William Ruto have jointly launched the $500 million (Shs1.7 trillion) Devki steel project in Tororo, Uganda, marking a significant milestone in East Africa's industrial landscape. The project, led by the Devki Group of Companies, is set to become the largest steel production facility in the region, utilizing Uganda's abundant iron ore deposits. This ambitious initiative aims to reduce steel imports, create a substantial number of jobs, and boost regional trade, while also anchoring both countries' infrastructure and industrial growth. However, the project has faced challenges, including land acquisition issues, with some Utro residents making fraudulent claims to government land, which President Museveni addressed by directing the First Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for East African Affairs to resolve the matter. The plant's completion is expected to significantly reduce Uganda's steel imports, estimated at $500 million annually, and contribute to the country's economic development. The project is a testament to the commitment of both nations to sustainable development and industrial integration, as described by Kenyan President Ruto, who highlighted its role in Africa's industrial ambitions.
