By Aoma Keziah
The Cabinet Secretary for Investments, Trade, and Industry, Salim Mvurya, has issued a strong warning to investors who have been hoarding licenses within the Special Economic Zones (SEZs).
He made it clear that the government will not tolerate any delays in the development and investment activities within these zones.
Speaking during the laying of the foundation stone for the Crystal Frozen and Chilled Foods Limited Special Economic Zone in Naivasha, Mvurya reiterated the government’s commitment to fostering economic growth through the SEZs.
He emphasized that the government expects investors who acquire licenses to commence their projects promptly and contribute to the country’s economic progress.
“We are committed to ensuring that the Special Economic Zones fulfill their intended purpose of driving industrial growth and creating jobs.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.” Said Mvurya.
The SEZs have been a critical component of Kenya’s strategy to attract foreign direct investment and spur industrialization. The zones offer various incentives, including tax breaks and streamlined regulatory processes, to encourage investment. However, concerns have been raised about some investors acquiring licenses without following through on their development plans, effectively stalling progress in these areas.
Nineteen companies have expressed interest in setting up operations at the Naivasha SEZ, with eleven of them already cleared and awarded licenses. The CS attributed this progress to the government’s continuous efforts to ease the process of doing business, urging investors to take full advantage of the incentives available, and also emphasized the importance of investors collaborating with local communities.
“Investors must work together with the local communities by prioritizing employment opportunities. The process should have a coordinated structure that ensures full representation from the grassroots level.” He stated.
The Cabinet Secretary’s remarks come at a time when the government is intensifying its efforts to revitalize the SEZs and ensure they deliver on their promise of boosting economic growth and creating jobs for Kenyans.
The event in Naivasha marks a significant milestone for Crystal Frozen and Chilled Foods Limited, as the company prepares to establish its operations within the SEZ, which is expected to enhance food processing and export activities in the region. The project is anticipated to create hundreds of jobs and contribute to the local economy, aligning with the government’s broader vision for the SEZs.
Accompanied by Investments Principal Secretary Abubakar Hassan, Mvurya also reviewed the progress of other facilities taking shape within the Naivasha SEZ, reaffirming the government’s dedication to fostering a conducive environment for investment and development.
Mvurya’s warning serves as a clear message to all stakeholders involved in the SEZs: the government is serious about its commitment to economic development and will not hesitate to take action against those who do not adhere to their obligations.
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The Mt Kenya Times 
