County Launches Nairobi Investment Conference to Attract FDI

Nairobi City County officially staged the 2nd Africa Smart Cities Investment Summit at the Radisson Blu Hotel, signaling its renewed push to draw foreign direct investment (FDI) into the city. The three-day event, under the theme Unleashing the AI City, saw participation from global investors, policymakers, and innovation experts, all aligned around Nairobi’s agenda to become a regional magnet for sustainable tech and infrastructure investments.
This summit is part of the county’s broader drive to position Nairobi as a smart, data-led metropolis. The county government, led by Governor Johnson Sakaja, highlighted its ongoing reforms — including digitization initiatives, unified business permits, and NairobiPay — that are already improving ease of doing business and transparency. Key stakeholders deliberated on opportunities in AI-driven urban planning, green infrastructure, and emerging real estate corridors designed to support investment inflows, while championing public-private partnerships for long-term growth.
Investor reactions have been largely positive. Delegates praised Nairobi’s visionary approach to urban development, expressing confidence that the city’s tech-forward strategy can unlock sustainable economic growth. Several fund managers and multinational firms reportedly began exploratory discussions with local entrepreneurs and county leaders regarding potential investments in smart mobility, digital services, and AI-based solutions. At the same time, some cautioned that infrastructure gaps, regulatory clarity, and data governance frameworks must remain strong for Nairobi to fulfill its FDI potential.
Looking ahead, Nairobi City County aims to leverage the momentum generated by the summit to institutionalize annual investment forums and deepen ties with global innovation ecosystems. With its smart-city ambitions gaining traction, the county hopes future conferences will translate into concrete deals — helping channel capital into local startups, real estate, and green infrastructure. If successful, these efforts could further solidify Nairobi’s reputation as a leading destination for international investment in East Africa.