NAIROBI — Cabinet Secretary for Investments, Trade, and Industry Lee Kinyanjui visited Tatu City on Monday to promote government efforts to reform Kenya’s Special Economic Zones (SEZs) and attract both domestic and foreign investment.
During the tour, Kinyanjui inspected major developments within the 5,000-acre SEZ located on Nairobi’s outskirts. These included Tatu Industrial Park, Tatu Central, and Kijani Ridge, a residential area designed for urban living.
“Tatu City represents a clear example of how structured zones can support business growth from the beginning,” Kinyanjui said. “We are reviewing our SEZ policies to ensure they match investor expectations and position Kenya as a top destination for international firms.”
The government aims to strengthen SEZ policy amid shifting global economic conditions. Kinyanjui emphasized that while current incentives remain competitive, more responsive reforms are underway.
Tatu City hosts over 100 companies across industries such as manufacturing, logistics, real estate, and education. Its developer, Rendeavour, estimates the development sees a daily population of 25,000 residents, workers, and students.
Stephen Jennings, CEO of Rendeavour, called for stronger ties between the private sector and government. “Long-term economic growth depends on strategic cooperation,” he said. “Our engagement with public agencies helps improve investor confidence and shape a stable business environment.”
CS Kinyanjui was accompanied by top officials, including Principal Secretary for Investment Promotion Abubakar Hassan Abubakar, Kenya Investment Authority CEO John Mwendwa, and leaders from the Special Economic Zones Authority.
Companies within the Tatu SEZ enjoy a 10 percent corporate tax rate for the first decade and 15 percent for the following 10 years. They also benefit from zero-rated VAT and exemptions on import and stamp duties—policies designed to ease operational costs and encourage long-term investment.
The visit marks a renewed push by the Kenyan government to revive confidence in SEZs as engines of job creation and industrial growth. Reforms, according to officials, will aim to streamline regulatory processes and expand infrastructure to support scalable investment.
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