Kenya industrial and healthcare infrastructure development

Kenya has initiated several strategic development projects focused on industrial capacity and healthcare infrastructure. President William Ruto announced a partnership between DP World and GulfCap Africa to develop the Mombasa Special Economic Zone (SEZ). This initiative aims to establish Mombasa as a manufacturing and export hub to serve the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA).

Subsequent developments regarding the Mombasa Industrial Park in Jomvu indicate that DP World and GulfCap Africa have signed a Shareholders Agreement to formalize a joint venture for the 222-hectare site. The project, which involves the Mombasa County Government, is expected to create more than 20,000 direct and indirect jobs. The first phase of development will cover 40 hectares, with over 60 local and international companies already expressing interest. The park is intended to leverage trade access through the AfCFTA, the EU Economic Partnership Agreement, and the UAE Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement to reduce dependence on raw material exports.

In addition to industrial developments, Kenya has partnered with the Italian government and GKSD Group to construct 15 new hospitals across 15 counties. Part of Italy’s Mattei Plan for Africa, this project includes 13 Level 5 county referral hospitals and two Level 6 national teaching and referral hospitals to address hospital bed shortages and support Universal Health Coverage.