Uralchem, Moscow, intends to expand cooperation with Kenya in the field of mineral fertilizer production. Board Chairman Dmitry Mazepin visited Nairobi on Dec. 1-2, where he met with President of the Republic of Kenya Uhuru Kenyatta. The main objective of the trip was business development in the African region.
“Historically, the Soviet Union and Kenya did not have many opportunities to cooperate, but now the world is changing. Africa is opening its doors to investment and developing, and wants to build relations,” said Mazepin. “The president of Kenya said that he was ready for closer relations with Russia and invited Russian companies to cooperate. Uralchem and Uralkali will take this opportunity to expand their business in Africa and, in particular, in Kenya.”
Uralchem said it reached its first agreements with Kenya. The two Russian companies are expected to expand their presence in the country through cooperation with the largest agricultural organizations. Uralchem also anticipates the construction of port infrastructure and joint projects in the mining industry.
Uralchem and Uralkali have been mulling a hub in Zimbabwe in order to export fertilizers to African countries, and have been beefing up their connections in Africa this year (GM Feb. 9, p. 27; April 13, p. 30; Nov. 2, p. 30). Mazepin in April put Uralchem and Uralkali exports to southeast Africa at 100,000 mt. However, the two companies believe short-term growth could reach 500,000-600,000 mt.