Tatu City named Regional Office for World Free Zones Organization, elevating Kenya’s SEZ leadership
Preston Mendenhall, Group COO of Rendeavour and Country Head of Tatu City (Middle) together with Solomon Mahinda, Executive Vice President, Tatu City (Left) welcome H.E. President William Samoei Ruto (Right) to the Tatu City booth during the African Special Economic Zones Annual Meeting 2024, held at the Kenyatta International Convention Centre (KICC) in Nairobi.
Tatu City has achieved a significant milestone, being appointed as the Regional Office and National Contact Point for the World Free Zones Organization (World FZO). The announcement was made during the 9th African Economic Zones Organization (AEZO) Annual Meeting, held at the Kenyatta International Convention Centre (KICC) in Nairobi. This landmark event was officiated by President William Ruto and brought together over 400 global industry leaders, policymakers, and experts to deliberate on the future of Africa’s Special Economic Zones (SEZs).
The appointment of Tatu City, a leading Special Economic Zone, underscores its role as a transformative force in East Africa’s economic development. It is a recognition of Tatu City’s excellence in promoting innovation, governance, and sustainability in the SEZ sector.
Dr. Samir Hamrouni, CEO of the World Free Zones Organization, highlighted the significance of Tatu City’s selection. “The choice of Tatu City as both the National Contact Point and Regional Office is a testament to its outstanding performance as a Special Economic Zone. Tatu City embodies the vision of fostering economic growth and innovation through free zones, representing Kenya and the region on the global stage,” Dr. Hamrouni stated.
Tatu City’s new role as the Regional Office involves overseeing the expansion of World FZO’s initiatives across Africa, supporting membership growth, and promoting regional collaboration. As the National Contact Point, Tatu City will facilitate cooperation among stakeholders, ensuring that Kenya remains at the forefront of the global SEZ network.
Speaking at the signing ceremony, Solomon Mahinda, Executive Vice President of Tatu City, expressed enthusiasm for the new responsibilities. “We are deeply honoured by this appointment and excited to collaborate with the World Free Zones Organization. This partnership will bolster our efforts to attract impactful investments, promote best practices, and enhance regional collaboration, driving sustainable economic growth in Kenya and beyond,” he said.
Tatu City’s leadership in SEZ development has been consistently recognized. Last year, the city was appointed to the AEZO Steering Committee, further cementing its influence in shaping Africa’s SEZ ecosystem. During the AEZO Gala Dinner Awards, Tatu City received accolades for its exemplary SEZ operational practices and unwavering support for AEZO initiatives.
Located just 30 minutes from Nairobi’s Westlands, Tatu City is a 5,000-acre urban development designed to provide a “live, work, and play” environment free from traffic congestion and long commutes. Currently, 26,400 residents live, work, or study in Tatu City, a number expected to grow to 250,000 upon full completion. The city hosts 88 businesses, including global investors and local enterprises.
One of the latest additions is Hewatele, which is constructing a KES 2.8 billion medical oxygen plant. This investment, supported by the U.S., Canadian, Finnish, and Danish governments and the Soros Economic Development Fund, demonstrates Tatu City’s capacity to attract large-scale, impactful projects.
With its latest appointment, Tatu City is poised to enhance its role as a catalyst for economic transformation, fostering innovation and collaboration in Kenya and across Africa.
