Kenya’s construction and manufacturing sectors have been booming in recent years, fueling a strong demand for high-quality steel products.
From towering skyscrapers in Nairobi to expansive infrastructure projects across the country, steel plays a critical role in Kenya’s economic growth.
As the market expands, several top-tier steel companies have emerged, providing a wide range of products to meet diverse needs. In this article, we spotlight some of the best steel companies Kenya has to offer.
Overview of Kenya’s Steel Industry
Kenya’s steel industry has grown significantly over the past decade, driven by rapid urbanization, government-backed infrastructure projects, and a thriving real estate market. Key sectors such as construction, automotive, energy, and manufacturing continue to create strong demand for steel products including rebar, roofing sheets, pipes, structural steel, and fabricated components.
The government’s Big Four Agenda — especially affordable housing and manufacturing — further boosted the industry, while regional integration through the East African Community (EAC) presents new export opportunities.
Despite challenges such as fluctuating global steel prices, high energy costs, and competition from imports, Kenyan steel companies have remained resilient by investing in technology, diversifying product lines, and enhancing production capacities.
Company Profiles | 8 of the Top Steel Companies in Kenya
Which are the top steel companies in Kenya?
The leading steel companies in Kenya include Devki Steel Mills Ltd, Tononoka Group, Apex Steel Ltd, David Engineering (K) Ltd, Abyssinia Group, SteelMakers Ltd, Accurate Steel Mills Ltd, and Kens Metal Industries Ltd. These companies offer a range of products such as rebar, structural steel, steel fabrication, and customized steel solutions for construction, infrastructure, and manufacturing sectors.
Together, these eight companies represent a robust snapshot of the top steel companies Kenya depends on—ranging from mass steel mills to specialized metal fabricators.
Criteria for Selection
With numerous steel companies Kenya has to offer, selecting the best requires careful consideration. The companies featured in this list stand out based on several key factors:
- Product Range: A diverse portfolio catering to various industries and customer needs.
- Quality Standards: Commitment to high manufacturing standards, certifications, and consistent product performance.
- Production Capacity: Ability to meet large-scale demands while maintaining efficiency.
- Reputation: Strong track record, trusted by major contractors, developers, and government projects.
- Innovation & Sustainability: Adoption of modern technology, eco-friendly practices, and continuous improvement.
- Customer Service: Reliable support, timely deliveries, and after-sales services.
Let’s explore the top steel companies in Kenya in keen detail:
1. David Engineering (K) Ltd
Among the many steel companies in Kenya, David Engineering (K) Ltd stands out as a highly specialized player in steel fabrication and engineering solutions.
Established close to three decades ago, the company has grown into one of the leading providers of custom steel structures, serving diverse sectors such as real estate, telecommunications, water, power, and infrastructure development.
Unlike many traditional steel manufacturers in Kenya that focus on mass production of rebar and structural sections, David Engineering has carved a niche in precision fabrication, design, and turnkey steel construction. Their expertise extends from design and detailing to fabrication, finishing, and on-site erection, providing clients with complete steel solutions from start to finish.
Core Products & Services:
- Structural steel fabrication (beams, columns, trusses, platforms)
- Telecommunication towers and masts
- Water towers and tanks
- Bridges and industrial plant structures
- Custom-designed steel projects
- Turnkey solutions: design, fabrication, installation, and commissioning
Key Strengths:
- In-house design and detailing department utilizing advanced CAD/CAM software
- Skilled workforce with years of fabrication and erection experience
- Strong quality assurance processes ensuring accuracy and structural integrity
- Partnerships with top steel mills like Tononoka Rolling Mills, ensuring consistent material supply
- Proven track record across Kenya and the East African region
Contact Information:
- Email: info@davidengineeringkltd.co.ke
- Phone: +254 719 619 877
- Address: Tononoka Rolling Mills Complex, Phase 5, Komarock Road, Nairobi
As infrastructure projects continue to grow in advance and complexity, companies like David Engineering play a crucial role in delivering high-quality, custom-engineered steel structures. Their ability to handle complex projects makes them a key player in Kenya’s evolving steel industry.
It’s also worth noting that David Engineering has a business partnership with Tononoka Group.
In summary:
- Tononoka Group supplies the steel, leveraging its mill facilities.
- David Engineering handles the fabrication and engineering of steel solutions.
The partnership ensures steady material supply, enhanced quality control, and efficient project delivery backed by a combined 7 decades of steel experience.
2. Devki Steel Mills Ltd
As one of the largest steel companies Kenya boasts, Devki Steel Mills has played a pivotal role in shaping the country’s steel sector. Founded in 1994, Devki has grown into a major supplier of steel products used in construction, infrastructure, and manufacturing.
Products & Services:
- Reinforcement bars (rebar)
- Wire rods
- Roofing sheets
- Structural steel products
Key Strengths:
- Extensive distribution network across East Africa
- State-of-the-art manufacturing facilities
- Competitive pricing and large-scale production capacity
3. Tononoka Group
Founded in 1980, Tononoka Group has established itself as one of the leading steel companies Kenya depends on for quality and reliability. With decades of experience, the group specializes in manufacturing and supplying steel products for various sectors.
Products & Services:
- Hollow sections
- Round bars
- Square and rectangular pipes
- Roofing profiles and coils
Key Strengths:
- ISO-certified operations ensuring consistent quality
- Strategic location with efficient delivery capabilities
- Strong reputation among contractors and developers
As mentioned above, Tononoka Group and David Engineering entered a formal partnership—a collaboration that brings together Tononoka’s steel manufacturing capabilities and David Engineering’s fabrication expertise.
This joint venture emphasizes their combined 70+ years of experience in steel manufacturing & fabrication, highlighting the benefit of a reliable, on-site supply of raw materials.
4. Apex Steel Ltd
Apex Steel Ltd is another key player among steel companies Kenya recognizes for its innovation and commitment to excellence. Established over four decades ago, Apex has remained at the forefront of the steel manufacturing industry.
Products & Services:
- Deformed bars
- Steel pipes
- Pre-engineered building solutions
- Industrial and structural steel components
Key Strengths:
- Focus on sustainable manufacturing processes
- Compliance with both local and international standards
- Strong partnerships with large-scale construction and infrastructure projects
5. Abyssinia Group (Iron & Steel)
The Abyssinia Group stands as one of the largest integrated steel producers in East Africa, with a production capacity exceeding 350,000 tonnes annually
Products & Services:
- Reinforcement bars (TMT & ribbed)
- Hollow sections (circular, square, rectangular)
- Pipes, weld mesh, BRC mesh, binding wire
Key Strengths:
- Utilises locally sourced minerals from mining operations in Homa Bay County
- Vertically integrated operations (mining → steel production)
- Major player in regional markets with robust production scale
6. SteelMakers Ltd
SteelMakers Ltd is a reputable manufacturer and exporter of hot-rolled steel products, with operations spanning Kisumu, Nairobi, Mombasa, and Athi River.
Products & Services:
- Hot-rolled coils, bars, and sheet products
- High-alloy steel castings, nuts & bolts, galvanized items
Key Strengths:
- Adherence to Kenyan (KEBS), British (BS), and American (ASTM) standards
- Broad product range covering structural and fastener needs
- Strong distribution network with both domestic and export outreach
7. Accurate Steel Mills Ltd
Accurate Steel Mills Ltd has carved a strong reputation among steel manufacturers in Kenya, delivering quality reinforcement and structural products since its establishment in 1997 .
Products & Services:
- Reinforcement bars (deformed and ribbed)
- Structural steel sections: angles, beams, flat bars
- Fabrication supplies for contractors and structural projects
Key Strengths:
- Focused product portfolio tailored to construction and fabrication needs
- Consistent quality backed by ISO certifications
- Trusted by both public and private sector construction stakeholders
8. Kens Metal Industries Ltd
Kens Metal Industries Ltd is a polished example of a long-standing steel provider in Nairobi, starting as a foundry in 1982 and evolving into a major engineering materials supplier
Products & Services:
- Cast iron, brass, bronze, and aluminium components
- Engineering materials for automotive, agricultural, and industrial markets
- Value-added machining and assembly services
Key Strengths:
- Diversified alloys portfolio beyond carbon steel
- Strong local client base with bespoke metal-working capabilities
- Multi-decade presence in Kenya’s industrial sector
Trends Shaping Steel Companies in Kenya
The steel industry in Kenya is evolving rapidly, driven by both local demand and global shifts. Leading steel companies in Kenya are adapting to stay competitive, efficient, and sustainable. Below are some of the key trends influencing the sector:
1. Growing Demand from Infrastructure and Real Estate
Government mega projects like the Nairobi Expressway, LAPSSET Corridor, and affordable housing programs continue to create sustained demand for steel products. As a result, steel manufacturers in Kenya are expanding production capacities and diversifying product lines to meet the specific needs of these projects.
2. Regional Expansion and Export Opportunities
With Kenya positioning itself as a manufacturing hub in East Africa, many Kenyan steel producers are targeting regional markets like Uganda, Tanzania, Rwanda, and South Sudan. This has encouraged companies to invest in advanced manufacturing technology and logistics to improve competitiveness beyond local borders.
3. Technological Modernization
Automation, computer-aided design (CAD), and precision fabrication equipment are becoming increasingly common. Fabricators like David Engineering (K) Ltd and large-scale steel mills in Kenya are investing heavily in modern machinery to enhance product quality, reduce waste, and improve turnaround times.
4. Sustainability and Recycling
Environmental concerns are pushing steel companies Kenya relies on to adopt greener practices. The use of recycled scrap metal has grown, reducing the reliance on imported raw materials while lowering carbon footprints. Companies are also adopting energy-efficient furnaces and emission control systems to comply with global environmental standards.
5. Vertical Integration
Some of the top steel manufacturers in Kenya, such as Abyssinia Group, are moving towards vertical integration — controlling the full production chain from raw material mining to finished products. This strategy allows for better cost management, quality control, and supply chain stability.
Conclusion
The steel industry plays a critical role in Kenya’s economic development, supporting key sectors like construction, infrastructure, manufacturing, and energy. As seen in this list of top steel companies in Kenya, the sector features a dynamic mix of large integrated producers, specialized fabricators, and innovative manufacturers.
Despite facing challenges such as high production costs, global competition, and supply chain constraints, leading steel manufacturers in Kenya continue to adapt by investing in technology, expanding regionally, and embracing sustainability. With growing infrastructure demands and regional integration, the future remains promising for Kenya’s steel industry as it continues to build the nation — quite literally — one beam, pipe, and sheet at a time.