Construction of Sh22 billion factory starts in West Pokot : The Standard

The construction of a Sh22 billion cement factory at Sebit will begin this month. West Pokot Governor John Lonyangapuo said the construction had delayed because of lack of necessary approvals from various agencies. "Cemtech, the company that is undertaking the construction, needed at least 65 licences to start the work. It has now received the licences and will soon break ground," said Mr Lonyangapuo. Former Prime Minister Raila Odinga laid the foundation stone 10 years ago.

SEE ALSO :Lonyangapuo rescues detained boda boda rider

Residents have waited for the construction of the factory to start, with some saying they were beginning to give up. In the past, accusations and counter-accusations have been traded between leaders in the county over the awarding of the tender. Cemtech was awarded the contract in 2009 by the defunct local authority. The new county administration reviewed the contract and approved it. The construction of the factory was supposed to kick off in 2010, and was supposed to take two years. The facility was expected to employ more than 4,500 people directly and others indirectly.

SEE ALSO :Governor’s security detail withdrawn

However, residents' hopes of getting jobs have been dimmed, with some falling on hard times after selling their land to Cemtech. Speaking in Kapenguria, Cemtech CEO Rajesh Rawal said the company was ready to begin work after getting the licences. “It takes long to get all the required licences. We have solved two major problems; quality of the limestone and ground geometric technicality. These affected the location of the plant." Lonyangapuo said the factory would help eradicate poverty in the county. “We call on more investors to come to the county. We shall hold a joint meeting with the investor and the public so they can tell us the plans they have.”

SEE ALSO : Restore Lonyangapuo’s security detail, CoG tells Boinnet

Related Topics

Governor John LonyangapuoWest Pokot County