(Voi) – The Taita Taveta County Government has announced its readiness to allocate land for the establishment of an Export Processing Zone (EPZ) in Voi, signaling a step toward boosting industrialization and local manufacturing.
The announcement comes as investors call on lawmakers to enact policies limiting the importation of materials readily available within the country, aiming to support domestic industries.
Governor Andrew Mwadime, speaking during a visit by a national government delegation led by Cabinet Secretary Salim Mvurya, emphasized the transformative potential of industrialization in addressing unemployment. The governor highlighted the county’s wealth of resources, including quartz and iron ore, which provide a foundation for industrial growth.
Governor Mwadime pointed to the recent establishment of an iron ore factory worth KES 11 billion ($74.7 million) as a breakthrough for the county, which has historically lacked significant industrial projects since the advent of devolution. He stressed his administration’s commitment to fostering a business-friendly environment to attract investors and stimulate economic activity.
Cabinet Secretary Mvurya announced that the Devki factory, a key industrial project, will officially open next month, with the Head of State presiding over the event. He also confirmed that preparations for the EPZ are underway and urged the county government to fast-track the identification of suitable land for the project.
Narendra Ravala, Chairman of a prominent business group, expressed his support for the project, highlighting the importance of industrial expansion in driving national economic growth. However, he called for policy reforms to restrict the importation of products that can be manufactured locally, emphasizing the need for political commitment to capitalize on Kenya’s resources.
Major Industrial Projects Set to Transform Taita Taveta
| Project/Initiative | Details |
|---|---|
| Iron Ore Factory | KES 11 billion ($74.7 million); operational soon |
| EPZ Project in Voi | Land allocation in progress |
| Devki Factory Launch | Scheduled for next month |