Dubai logistics giant signs Ksh12B deal to develop Mombasa special economic zone

President William Ruto has endorsed the creation of a Ksh12 billion Special Economic Zone (SEZ) in Jomvu, Mombasa. The project aims to help Kenya transition from exporting raw products to manufacturing and exporting finished goods. Ruto signed a tripartite agreement between the County Government of Mombasa, Mombasa Free Zone Ltd, and global logistics firm DP World at State House, Nairobi.

The 535-acre Mombasa SEZ will cater to manufacturers and businesses engaged in production, processing, assembly, branding, logistics, and exports. Ruto believes the project aligns with his administration's Bottom-Up Economic Transformation Agenda by connecting farmers, entrepreneurs, and manufacturers to domestic, regional, and global markets.

He emphasized the need for Kenya to shift away from exporting raw and minimally processed commodities and focus on processing, manufacturing, and exporting finished products. The project is anticipated to generate 10,000 jobs in its first phase, with an estimated 7,972 direct employment opportunities according to earlier estimates.

The Mombasa SEZ will be situated within Jomvu, connected to the Standard Gauge Railway and regional transport corridors, serving as both a transit point for goods and a production and export hub. Over 67 companies have shown interest in setting up at the development site. Suleiman Shahbal, chairman of GulfCap Group, expressed delight at finally achieving this ambitious project after over 15 years of pursuit, highlighting its potential to significantly impact Mombasa's economy.

DP World CEO and managing director for Africa, Mohammed Akoojee, stated that the project will bolster regional trade and supply chain connectivity, contributing to Kenya's economic growth. This development further strengthens DP World's growing presence in Kenya, following their launch of a Port Community System with the Kenya Ports Authority in 2025 and signing a development agreement with GulfCap for the industrial park in August. The SEZ is positioned less than 20 kilometers from the Port of Mombasa.