Investor to splash billions on pharmaceutical and plywood factories in Narok

An investor is set to invest millions in a new pharmaceutical and a plywood factories in Narok County.

Speaking at Eor Ekule in Narok East Constituency during a ground-breaking ceremony for the construction of two factories at the weekend, Narok Governor Samuel Ole Tunai said the pharmaceutical factory alone would cost Sh1 billion.

He said the factory is expected to produce various tablets in phase one and in future expand into other medicines and antibiotics that are crucial in treatment of common diseases.

"The two factories that we are launching today are part of the commitments made by investors during the recent investment summit," he said.

Businessman Swapan Dhar is behind the two projects.

"Having an investor of the repute of Mr Dhar is a testament that Narok County is open for new business," said Mr Tunai.

Mr Dhar said the pharmaceutical plant would help address supply gaps in the local market for essential drugs, adding that construction of the factories is expected to commence next month.

"The two factories will offer direct employment to 300 locals and 2,000 others through the supply system," he said.

"Through corporate social responsibility, we will embark on building classes in Eor Ekule to ensure the children in the area get quality education."

Mr Dhar urged locals to start growing eucalyptus trees for supply of raw materials to the plywood factory.

Governor Tunai assured locals they would be given priority in employment at the factories once they are up and running.

"We have agreed with the investor that our children will be offered first priority for employment. No one should be employed from other areas if the skills are available here in Narok," he said.

Africa Industrial Works Plywood Factory, Mr Dhar said, will produce plywood boards for use in the construction and furniture industries.