County Unveils Nairobi Business Competitiveness Report

The release of the 2024 County Competitiveness Index (CCI) placed Nairobi at the top among all counties in Kenya, reinforcing its status as the country’s economic powerhouse. With a score of 77%, Nairobi was hailed for its strong infrastructure, skilled workforce, and business‑friendly environment — traits that make it a magnet for investment and enterprise.
However, the report also surfaced several areas of concern. While Nairobi leads in many domains, inefficiencies in governance and infrastructure persist. Critical issues such as inconsistent power supply, congested roads, and uneven digital connectivity were identified as obstacles that could hamper further business growth if not addressed. In addition, competitiveness in Nairobi is uneven: while the services, real estate, logistics, and manufacturing sectors are top performers, economic gains are still constrained by gaps in policy implementation and long-term investment planning.
Reaction from county stakeholders has been mixed. Investors and business leaders welcomed the recognition of Nairobi’s economic strength, noting that the report’s insights could guide more targeted public-private collaboration. At the same time, trade and investment experts urged the county government to fast-track infrastructure upgrades — particularly in transport and energy — and to deepen reforms that support innovation and digital business. According to the report, Nairobi’s prospects remain strong, but sustaining its lead will require bold action.
Looking forward, Nairobi City County aims to use the report as a strategic roadmap. County officials have indicated plans to enhance infrastructure, strengthen digital connectivity, and improve governance mechanisms to maintain competitiveness. If well-implemented, these reforms could not only preserve Nairobi’s current edge, but also spur its transformation into a more inclusive, innovation-driven economy that attracts both local and foreign investment.