President William Ruto has launched the Vipingo Special Economic Zone (SEZ) in Kilifi County. The 2,000-acre project is expected to attract more than $3 billion (Sh390 billion) and create over 35,000 jobs.
Driving Industrial Growth
Ruto said SEZs are central to Kenya’s plan to fast-track industrialisation, attract investors, and create wealth. He pointed to Kenya’s strengths:
- 38 special economic zones
- 111 export processing zones
- Reliable green energy
- A youthful workforce
- Rich natural resources
“These assets make Kenya the gateway to Africa’s 1.4 billion-strong free trade market,” the President said.
Investment Opportunities
The government will unveil new investment packages next week in:
- Textiles and apparel
- E-mobility
- Business Process Outsourcing (BPOs)
Ruto said these sectors will build value chains, create jobs, and increase exports.
Investor Confidence Rising
The launch took place during the Arise Integrated Industrial Platforms Kenya Investment Forum 2025 at Vipingo Ridge. Investors, policymakers, and financial leaders endorsed SEZs as engines of Africa’s growth.
Ruto praised Arise IIP and Centum for leading the project, while noting Vision Invest’s $700 million (Sh91 billion) commitment as a strong signal of investor trust.
Key Partnerships
At the event, the government signed an MoU with China’s Linglong Group to establish an advanced auto spare parts industrial park in Kenya.
Afreximbank President Benedict Oramah said SEZs are key to unlocking Kenya’s full industrial potential.
Kenya’s Ambition
With Vipingo SEZ, Kenya is positioning itself not only as Africa’s top investment hub, but also as a global destination for investors.
