Nairobi, May 13 -- Tanzanian conglomerate MeTL Group is planning a Sh6.5 billion ($50 million) soft drinks plant in Mombasa, setting up a rare regional challenge to Coca-Cola and Pepsi in Kenya's highly concentrated beverages market.

Construction of the multi-billion shilling plant is expected to start within the next year, and marks the company's first major investment in Kenya, as Tanzanian investors flock to the neighbouring country in expansion bids.

It will produce MeTL's signature beverages, including Mo Cola, Mo Xtra and Mo Malto, which have gained popularity in Tanzania with cut-price drinks that have challenged established market leader Coca-Cola.

Mo Cola is named after Mohammed Dewji, the chief executive of MeTL, who Forbes r...