This archive report was first published on 23 August 2021.
On August 23, 2021, the Special Economic Zones (SEZ) Authority, with support from the International Finance Corporation (IFC), launched a dynamic web portal to enhance communication, transparency, and service provision for current and potential investors in Kenya's special economic zones.
The web portal, found at www.sezauthority.go.ke, aims to boost investment, growth, and job creation in Kenya by providing an interactive online platform for investor outreach, retention, and after-care strategies.
Kenya has ten special economic zones, which are demarcated areas with unique rules of business. They offer private firms quality, cost-effective, reliable infrastructure, efficient customs services, regulatory predictability, and fiscal incentives.
According to Hon. Betty Maina, Cabinet Secretary, Ministry of Industrialization, Trade and Enterprise Development, special economic zones are a key pillar for Kenya's industrialization agenda, value addition, and a platform to leverage and catalyze private sector investment.
“We will work hand in hand with the SEZ Authority to boost the private sector contribution to GDP and scale-up investment generation, especially in manufacturing,” said Hon. Betty Maina.
The web portal will provide investors with information on opportunities and incentives, including investor road maps and facilities, available investment schemes and sectors, administrative and tax incentives.
Investors can also apply to lease land within the public SEZ parks, sign up for news updates, subscribe to the SEZ Authority bulletin, access the resource center, and make online applications through the portal.
“Strengthening investment in industrial infrastructures, such as special economic zones, is key to growing Kenya's economy. IFC will continue to support Kenya to establish SEZs to facilitate investors' access to essential infrastructure and simplified mechanisms for business registration and operation,” said Amena Arif, IFC Country Manager for Kenya.
