President William Ruto has launched the Vipingo Special Economic Zone in Kilifi County, a 2,000-acre industrial hub set to attract Sh 390 billion in investments and create over 35,000 jobs, positioning Kenya as Africa’s industrial powerhouse.
The announcement was made via a post on the President’s verified Facebook page, where he explained Kenya’s commitment to leveraging Special Economic Zones (SEZs) to accelerate industrial growth, attract global investors, and create wealth for the people.
"Kenya is unlocking its full potential as Africa’s industrial powerhouse! We are investing in Special Economic Zones (SEZs) as engines of growth to fast-track industrialization, attract global investors, and create wealth for our people," President Ruto stated.
The Vipingo Special Economic Zone is among 38 Special Economic Zones and 111 Export Processing Zones (EPZs) already established in the country.
The project aims to take advantage of Kenya’s abundant green energy, youthful workforce, and rich natural resources to position the nation as a key gateway to the 1.4 billion-strong African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) market.
“With 38 Special Economic Zones, 111 Export Processing Zones, abundant green energy, a dynamic young workforce, and rich natural resources for value addition, Kenya stands as the gateway to Africa’s 1.4 billion-strong AfCFTA market,” President Ruto emphasized.
Located in the coastal region of Kilifi County, the Vipingo (SEZ) is expected to be a game changer for the region and the country at large. It will house manufacturing plants, logistics hubs, and technology parks aimed at increasing exports, boosting local industries, and improving Kenyan livelihoods and Africa at large.
Local leaders in Kilifi have also welcomed the project, citing its potential to lift thousands of families out of poverty through job creation and improved infrastructure.
A Nairobi-based industrialist also confirmed that the Vipingo (SEZ) is not just a mega project, it’s a statement of intent and Kenya is telling the world that it is open for business and ready to lead Africa’s industrial revolution.
Leaders in Kilifi have also welcomed the project, citing its potential to lift thousands of families out of poverty through job creation and improved infrastructure.
“This is a blessing to the people of Kilifi. For decades, we have waited for a development project of this magnitude. It will change lives,” Kilifi Governor Gideon Munga'ro said.
The government of Kenya has also committed to ensuring the necessary infrastructure such as roads, water, and power is rapidly developed to support the zone’s growth and attract potential investors.
President Ruto’s administration has placed economic transformation at the heart of its agenda, with SEZs seen as a key pillar in achieving Kenya’s Vision 2030 and Bottom-Up Economic Transformation Agenda (BETA).
As global companies continue to seek new industrial bases in Africa, Kenya is positioning itself as a top destination by offering investor-friendly policies, tax incentives, and strategic access to regional and international markets.
