The Association of Special Economic Zones (ASEZ) has officially been launched with a strong mandate to drive the future of Special Economic Zones (SEZs) in Kenya and attract both local and foreign investment.
Tatu City and Konza Technopolis are 5,000-acre SEZs in the country that are subject to different and more favourable economic regulations compared to other regions, which include tax incentives and the opportunity to pay lower tariffs and are designed to generate positive economic growth.
ASEZ marks a critical milestone for Kenya’s industrial sector as it aims to boost economic growth, create jobs, and position Kenya as a top destination for global investors.
The formation of ASEZ brings together SEZ developers, operators, investors, and service providers, creating a unified voice to advocate for better policies, streamlined regulations, and infrastructure improvements.
Speaking during the launch Principal Secretary, State Department for Investment Promotion, Ministry of Investment, Trade, and Industry Abubakar Hassan Abubakar said the launch of ASEZ is not just a milestone for the association but a major leap for the country.
“SEZs are a central pillar in the government’s economic agenda, and we see them as champions of Kenya’s journey towards becoming a globally competitive investment hub,” he added.
Abubakar noted that President Ruto’s vision for the nation is deeply rooted in industrialisation, job creation, and economic growth. “We are committed to ensuring SEZs receive the full backing of the government,” he said
Dr. David Langat, Chairman of ASEZ, placed a special focus on the manufacturing sector as the backbone of Kenya’s industrial growth.
“As the key driver of industrial growth, manufacturing within SEZs has a ripple effect across the economy, creating jobs for our youth and positioning Kenya as a regional powerhouse,” he said.
Through ASEZ, Dr. Langat added that they aim to strengthen the sector and build on its potential to deliver long-term, sustainable growth.
“ASEZ is committed to ensuring that SEZs operate in a globally competitive, business-friendly environment, and we are excited to work with the government to further drive growth in this critical sector,” Dr. Langat said.
Solomon Mahinda, Vice Chairman of Tatu City and also elected Vice Chair of ASEZ, said, “SEZs are critical to our country’s industrialisation efforts, offering fertile ground for investment and job creation. With ASEZ, we now have a unified voice to advocate for policies that will unlock the full potential of these zones.”
The event was also graced by event industry players in various sectors, namely, Dr. Kenneth Chelule, CEO of SEZ Authority, and Madam Florence Were, Ag. Managing Director of KenInvest, Kenya Revenue Authority, and founding members Tatu City and Africa Economic Zones (AEZ), who all emphasized the importance of the association in shaping the future of SEZs in Kenya.
The Association committed to advocacy, networking, and capacity building to connect SEZ developers and investors with global partners and offer tailored solutions to address the unique challenges faced by SEZ stakeholders.
ASEZ members will enjoy favourable investment support and close collaboration with relevant government entities and will also access global best practices, networking opportunities, and trade facilitation.
However, the members, such as zone developers, operators, enterprises, or service providers, must attain the necessary licenses and approvals within the SEZ ecosystem.
With many more SEZ enterprises in the process of becoming members, the diverse and growing membership underscores the widespread support and critical importance of ASEZ in shaping the future of Kenya’s economic zones.
The Association of Special Economic Zones (ASEZ) is a non-profit organisation established to promote the development, management, and sustainability of Special Economic Zones (SEZs) in Kenya.
By Wangari Ndirangu
