By Michelle Ndaga
Kenya has unveiled the Vipingo Special Economic Zone (SEZ) in Kilifi County, a flagship 2,000-acre project that underscores the country’s ambition to position itself as Africa’s leading industrial hub.
President William Ruto announced the launch, describing SEZs as critical engines of growth designed to accelerate industrialisation, attract global investors, and generate wealth for Kenyans.
The Vipingo SEZ is expected to attract investments worth Sh390 billion and create over 35,000 direct jobs, with thousands more indirect opportunities anticipated across multiple industries, including manufacturing, logistics, and value addition.
Kenya currently hosts 38 SEZs and 111 Export Processing Zones (EPZs), supported by abundant green energy, a youthful workforce, and vast natural resources.
These assets, the President noted, strategically position the country as the gateway to the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) market of 1.4 billion people.
The government has prioritized SEZs as part of its broader economic transformation agenda, with the Vipingo project set to become a key driver of industrial growth in the coastal region. By offering infrastructure, incentives, and a conducive environment for businesses, the initiative aims to enhance competitiveness while fostering inclusive economic development.
The launch marks a major step in Kenya’s journey toward unlocking its full industrial potential and strengthening its role in regional and global trade.
