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| Uganda Devki Mega Steel project |
Historic Industrial Expansion in Tororo District
Uganda has initiated a $500 million steel plant investment in Tororo, signaling a transformative step in regional industrialization. The groundbreaking ceremony in late November saw Presidents Museveni and Ruto affirm the project’s strategic significance. Devki Group, led by Kenyan industrialist Dr. Narande Raval, will develop a vertically integrated steel complex. The plant will create 15,000 direct jobs and stimulate related industries, including a planned iron ore processing facility in Kabala. Consequently, the investment strengthens East Africa’s regional supply chains and industrial self-sufficiency.
Economic and Social Implications
President Museveni highlighted that Africa historically lost value by exporting raw materials. Therefore, this Uganda Steel Plant Investment aims to retain domestic added value and reduce dependency on imports. Meanwhile, President Ruto emphasized the project’s role in youth employment and regional value chain development. Devki Mega Steel will not only produce steel sheets and intermediate products locally but also catalyze future industrial projects across Uganda. As a result, the plant is expected to generate additional 16,000 jobs from Raval’s subsequent Kabala facility.
Regional Steel Market Outlook
Africa’s steel output rose 3.8% year-on-year to 19.3 million tons from January to October 2025, indicating rising demand. In October alone, production reached 2 million tons, up 0.8% y/y. Uganda Steel Plant Investment enters this growing market, supplying domestic and regional demand. Therefore, the plant positions Uganda as a key player in East African steel production, reducing imports while fostering industrial diversification. In contrast, reliance on foreign steel would continue capital outflow and limit local economic growth.
ScrapInsight Commentary
The Devki Mega Steel project represents a landmark in East African industrialization, securing domestic steel production and employment. The $500 million investment is expected to stabilize regional steel prices and reduce import dependency. Furthermore, it advances circular economy principles by enabling local value addition and sustainable resource utilization.
