The multi-billion Ceramics International Factory commissioned by Kisumu Governor, Prof. Anyang’ Nyong’o in Miwani, Muhoroni sub-county has created employment opportunities for more than 3800 people.
The plant built on 150 acres at a cost of Sh5.9 billion (US$50, 000, 000) has absorbed 800 residents on direct employment and created a further 3000 indirect jobs.
The firm’s Managing Director (MD), Rui Qin Li said the Industrial Park within the facility once complete will produce three different types of ceramic tiles besides two sanitary ware production lines and a Fast Moving Consumer Goods (FMCG) unit.
Qin Li further revealed that the projected investment is expected to reach Sh16 billion with the factory set to produce semi-porcelain tiles, wall tiles, and porcelain floor tiles.
He said the KEDA Ceramic tiles brand name ‘Twyford’ is already available in the local market and was also being exported to the six East African Community (EAC) partner states; Uganda, Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), Tanzania, Rwanda, Burundi and Sudan.
“The estimated tile production by the firm will be 40,000 Sq. meters, 25,000 Sq. meters and 20,000 Sq. meters in three phases in that order,” he explained.
Qin Li further stated that cumulatively, the project will produce 30 million Sq. meters every year to satisfy the ever increasing demand for ceramic tiles for its broad based clientele in the region. Phase 1 of the project involves the construction of a production line for floor and wall tiles.
He said due to immense technical support from KEDA Clean Energy and Dowstone companies, as well as local high-quality clay, the firm is able to produce high-quality local products of 300 mm x 300 mm, 400 mm x 400 mm ceramic tiles and HD inkjet ceramic tiles.
This is the second ceramic project in Kenya undertaken by KEDA as a joint venture incorporated in 2016 by KEDA Clean Energy and Sunda international.
It has a 60-acre ceramics plant domiciled in Kajiado County where it has invested over Sh7 billion since 2016. The company also operates in India, Italy, Ghana, Zambia and Senegal.
The MD confided that the factory will use modern technology to manufacture tiles as it seeks to meet demand for floor and wall tiles in East and Central Africa.
Prof. Nyong’o on his part lauded the plant’s management for having chosen to set base in Kisumu County that he noted will go a long way in providing gainful employment to residents.
Prof. Nyong’o expressed confidence that they will tap into the abundantly skilled and unskilled workers as well as available raw materials required for production of the tiles.
The Governor was flanked by his Deputy Dr. Mathews Owili and Muhoroni MP Onyango K’Oyoo among other guests.
He assured local and foreign investors that his administration was keen on creating a conducive environment for their businesses to thrive.
By Joseph Ouma and Rolex Omondi
