In a significant stride, Nairobi Gate Industrial Park unveiled East Africa’s maiden Special Economic Zone (SEZ), complete with a gazetted customs control area during yesterday’s inauguration.
The industrial park now provides a consolidated hub, offering businesses operating within the facility a streamlined experience with various regulatory agencies, including the Kenya Revenue Authority, Kenya Ports Authority, Customs, and the Special Economic Zones Authority (SEZA).
Emphasizing the pivotal role of industrial parks in driving investments and accelerating manufacturing, Abubakar Hassan Abubakar, Principal Secretary for the State Department for Investment Promotion, highlighted the project’s impact. Currently, it has generated 434 jobs, with projections reaching up to 10,000 opportunities as the venture advances.
Developed by Improvon Group, Nairobi Gate SEZ aligns with the East African Community Customs Management Act (EACCMA) requirements. To facilitate a smooth operational environment, the park houses all relevant government agencies, including Kenya Medical Supplies Authority (KEMSA), Kenya Urban Roads Authority (KURA), Kenya Bureau of Standards (KEBS), and more.
With an initial investment of $40 million and a commitment to reach $160 million by 2035, the developers are focused on ensuring the SEZ operates as an extension of Kenya’s border for imports and exports.
Dean Shillaw, Managing Director of Impact North SEZ and owner of Nairobi Gate Industrial Park, emphasized their commitment to providing unparalleled ease for tenants. State-of-the-art weigh bridges, customs-controlled gatehouses, and robust security measures have been implemented to foster an environment conducive to business growth.
Introducing a ‘built to suit’ concept, Nairobi Gate Industrial Park addresses the demand for flexible, high-quality light-industrial properties. The facility caters to a diverse range of businesses, from international warehousing, distribution, and manufacturing, to local entities specializing in pharmaceuticals, medical equipment, electronics, engineering components, FMCG, and cold-chain storage.
Aligned with Nairobi’s 2030 spatial development plan, Nairobi Gate offers turnkey projects ranging from mini units of 5,000 square feet to expansive warehouses of 400,000 square feet, complemented by land sale options.
Kenneth Chelule, CEO of SEZA, expressed optimism about Nairobi Gate Industrial Park becoming the flagship SEZ, unlocking significant economic growth and job opportunities. His vision extends to positioning Kenya as a competitive player not only regionally but on the global stage as a preferred manufacturing destination.
Photo (FILE | COURTESY)
By: Montel Kamau
Serrari Financial Analyst
15th November, 2023
