Sagana: Trade and Investment Cabinet Secretary (CS) Lee Kinyanjui has announced that the Sagana Special Economic Zones and aggregation centers will be operational by May this year. The zone, which includes the Export Processing Zone (EPZ) and County Aggregation and Industrial Parks (CAIPs), is being developed in collaboration between national and county governments.
According to Kenya News Agency, during an assessment tour at the site, Kinyanjui emphasized the importance of meeting the timeline without failure ahead of the president’s official opening in May. The project is currently 75% complete, and while there are challenges, Kinyanjui assured that these will be addressed to ensure timely delivery.
Kinyanjui mentioned the positive development of some investors already booking spaces in the economic zones, which is a significant move for the rural county. This presents local investors with the opportunity to export their products directly to foreign markets, a shift from the traditional focus on urban cen
ters for investment.
The CS called for additional investments to foster job creation for the youth. He highlighted the higher market value of value-added products compared to raw produce, emphasizing the government’s commitment to supporting businesses, particularly in value addition.
Addressing investors and residents of Kirinyaga, Kinyanjui pointed out the substantial international demand for agricultural products, urging an increase in local production. He praised the county government of Kirinyaga for the swift construction of the CAIP and encouraged other counties to learn from their example.
Kinyanjui also advised political leaders to avoid negative politics, which he views as a hindrance to regional development, stressing the importance of unity and shared vision for progress.
Kirinyaga Governor Anne Waiguru expressed that the special economic zone in Sagana is a transformative project that will turn the town into an industrial hub. The county has shortlisted 18 investors to establish factories in
the park, focusing on processing and manufacturing goods for export, particularly in agriculture, leather, and textiles.
Governor Waiguru stated that Phase 1 of the EPZ is underway and that the prospective investors are contributing to the county’s vision for industrialization, especially in agro-processing and manufacturing.
The Sagana Industrial Park spans 242 acres and includes an affordable housing project. The facility will also host supportive industries such as banking, logistics, customs, ICT, security, farm inputs, hospitality, fire and disaster management, and recreational facilities.