5
Kenya’s Export Processing Zones Authority (EPZA) has attracted $800 million in new foreign direct investment (FDI) since July 2023, creating 25,000 jobs. New tenants include Turkish textile giant Kipaş, Indian pharmaceutical firm Cipla, and Chinese electronics assembler Foxconn subsidiary. The investments span apparel, medical devices, and mobile phone assembly, with 80% of output destined for the EU, US, and AfCFTA markets. EPZA credits streamlined licensing, 10-year tax holidays, and reliable power in Athi River and Mariakani zones. The authority aims to double FDI to $1.6 billion by 2026. However, activists urge stronger labor and environmental safeguards as the zones expand.