Ruto secures new investor for Ksh33B Kitui cement project

President William Ruto announced on October 1, 2026 that a new investor is set to take on a Ksh33 billion construction project in Kitui County. Speaking at a media engagement at State House, Mombasa, Ruto said he would travel to the county in November 2026 to officially launch the works. The project, which has been discussed for some time, has now secured a new investor after an earlier deal fell through.

Ruto did not disclose the new investor's name but mentioned their connection to Nigerian businessman Aliko Dangote, who had been approached to undertake the investment about six years ago. The earlier proposal was abandoned due to Dangote being asked to relinquish shares. Ruto emphasized the importance of providing an environment conducive to investment, rather than imposing conditions that could deter potential business owners.

The announcement comes in the wake of Dangote breaking ground for a Ksh2.2 trillion petroleum refinery project in Lamu County, which is part of a broader industrial development plan around the Lamu Port and LAPSSET corridor. Kitui, known for its limestone deposits, has long been seen as a potential location for cement and clinker production.

This new project represents a fresh effort to kickstart industrial development in the county following earlier Dangote-led initiatives that did not come to fruition.