Governor Launches 1,000 Initiative to Boost Local Economy in Nairobi

In a bold move to accelerate industrial growth, President William Ruto has unveiled a series of tax incentives and infrastructure projects aimed at attracting large-scale investors to Kenya’s Special Economic Zones (SEZs). Speaking at the Arise IIP-Kenya Investment Forum 2025 at Vipingo Ridge in Kilifi County, the President emphasized the government’s commitment to creating a stable, investor-friendly environment. He reassured investors of long-term support through predictable policies and legal frameworks, signaling Kenya’s readiness to become a regional industrial hub.
During the forum, President Ruto highlighted key development plans, including boosting energy production to over 10,000 megawatts to meet industrial demand and enhancing transport networks through the dualling of the Mombasa-Kilifi Highway and expanded railway lines. The government also intends to revive Kenya’s textile and apparel industry, leveraging eight identified textile value chains to drive manufacturing growth and create thousands of jobs. A flagship initiative, the establishment of a modern textile mill at the Vipingo SEZ, is projected to generate 30,000 direct jobs and support countless additional roles along the supply chain.
The investment drive received a significant boost when Afri-Exim Bank President Professor Benedict Oramah announced a $500 million (approximately KSh 62 billion) commitment to support SEZ infrastructure development, including industrial parks, roads, and utilities. Local leaders, including Kilifi Governor Gideon Mung’aro, hailed the initiative as transformative for the county, emphasizing the collaborative role of local governments in ensuring the success of these projects. The forum gathered government officials, investors, and private sector stakeholders, highlighting a shared focus on unlocking Kenya’s industrial potential.
Looking ahead, President Ruto urged greater local participation in industrialization efforts, stressing the importance of mobilizing domestic resources to reduce dependency on external borrowing. With foundational infrastructure projects underway and substantial financing secured, Kenya is positioning itself as a competitive destination for manufacturing and industrial investment in Africa, signaling a new chapter in the nation’s economic development.