In a decisive move to accelerate investment and development within Special Economic Zones (SEZs), Cabinet Secretary for Investments, Trade, and Industry, Hon. Salim Mvurya, today issued a stern warning to investors hoarding licenses.
Speaking at the foundation stone-laying ceremony for the Crystal Frozen and Chilled Foods Limited SEZ in Naivasha, Mvurya underscored the government’s commitment to ensuring prompt and productive use of SEZ licenses.
Mvurya announced that any investor who does not commence operations within one year of receiving a license will face revocation. The Special Economic Zones Authority has been directed to enforce this new mandate. “We are giving every investor six months to report to the ground, and if they don’t, we will move on to the next person,” Mvurya declared, emphasizing the need for timely action.
Currently, 19 companies have shown interest in establishing operations at the Naivasha SEZ, with 11 already cleared and awarded licenses. Mvurya attributed the progress to ongoing government efforts to streamline the business process, urging investors to leverage available incentives. “We are continuously working to ease the process of doing business. Investors should take full advantage of the incentives available,” he said.
The CS also highlighted the crucial role of local community engagement. He stressed that investors must prioritize employment opportunities for local residents and ensure a coordinated approach that includes grassroots representation. “Investors must work together with local communities. The process should have a coordinated structure that ensures full representation from the grassroots level,” Mvurya stated.
Addressing past grievances, Mvurya mentioned a specific case involving a Turkish investor who had not compensated local youth employed at their facility. “The government is following up with the Embassy in Turkey to ensure the dues are paid up by the runaway investor,” he assured.
The Crystal Frozen and Chilled Foods Limited facility, which will focus on producing frozen fries and vegetables, is expected to significantly impact Kenya’s agro-processing sector. With a production capacity of at least 13.8 tons of vegetables, the facility will help meet the hospitality industry’s high demand for produce, which is up to 1 million kilograms. This development is poised to enhance food security and contribute to the growth of Kenya’s agricultural value chain.
During the visit, accompanied by Investments Principal Secretary Abubakar Hassan, CS Mvurya also reviewed the progress of other projects within the Naivasha SEZ, reaffirming the government’s commitment to creating a conducive environment for investment and development.