Hon. Abubakar Hassan Abubakar, Principal Secretary, State Department for Investment Promotion (Standing) looks on as Dr. David Langat, Chairman of ASEZ and Solomon Mahinda, Vice Chairman of ASEZ sign an agreement during the launch of the Association of Special Economic Zone
Kenya’s industrial sector received a significant boost on Monday with the official launch of the Association of Special Economic Zones (ASEZ). This new organization is poised to drive investment and economic growth in the Special Economic Zones (SEZs) across the country, positioning Kenya as a leading destination for global investors.
ASEZ, a non-profit entity, was inaugurated with a clear mandate to enhance the development, management, and sustainability of SEZs in Kenya. The association aims to unify SEZ developers, operators, investors, and service providers, advocating for improved policies, streamlined regulations, and infrastructure enhancements.
The event was graced by industry players in various sectors, key government representatives- Hon. Abubakar Hassan Abubakar, Principal Secretary, State Department for Investment Promotion, Dr. Kenneth Chelule, CEO of SEZ Authority and Madam Florence Were, Ag. Managing Director of KenInvest, KRA and founding members- Tatu City and Africa Economic Zones (AEZ), highlighted the importance of this new organization in shaping Kenya’s SEZ landscape.
In his opening remarks Dr. David Langat, Chairman of ASEZ, emphasized the pivotal role of the manufacturing sector in Kenya’s industrial growth. “Manufacturing within SEZs is crucial for driving economic development, creating job opportunities for our youth, and positioning Kenya as a regional powerhouse,” Langat said.
L-R Dr. David Langat, Chairman of ASEZ, Hon. Abubakar Hassan Abubakar, Principal Secretary, State Department for Investment Promotion and Solomon Mahinda, Vice Chairman of ASEZ during the launch of the Association of Special Economic Zones. The association aims to establish a strong mandate to drive the future of Special Economic Zones (SEZs) in Kenya and attract both local and foreign investment
He expressed confidence that ASEZ would foster a globally competitive, business-friendly environment, aligning with the government’s objectives for sustainable economic growth.
Solomon Mahinda, Vice Chairman of ASEZ, echoed this sentiment, stating, “SEZs are essential for our country’s industrialization efforts, providing a fertile ground for investment and job creation. ASEZ’s unified voice will advocate for policies that unlock the full potential of these zones.”
The launch also underscored ASEZ’s commitment to advocacy, networking, and capacity building. The association plans to connect SEZ developers and investors with global partners and offer tailored solutions to address specific challenges faced by SEZ stakeholders.
Speaking at the same event Principal Secretary for Investment Promotion Hon. Abubakar Hassan Abubakar praised ASEZ as a significant milestone for Kenya’s economic strategy. “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 said.
He affirmed the government’s commitment to supporting SEZs, aligning with President Ruto’s vision for industrialization and job creation.
Additionally ASEZ members will benefit from favorable investment support and close collaboration with government entities. The association will also provide access to global best practices, networking opportunities, and trade facilitation. Members, including zone developers, operators, enterprises, and service providers, are required to obtain the necessary licenses and approvals within the SEZ ecosystem.
The formation of ASEZ marks a pivotal moment for Kenya’s SEZ sector, reflecting widespread support and underscoring the critical role of these zones in the country’s economic future.