A delegation of 18 Kenyan investors is exploring investment opportunities in Zanzibar's Special Economic Zones following a business forum organised by the Zanzibar Investment Promotion Authority (ZIPA) and Equity Group.
The investors, mainly from the energy and construction sectors, are expected to visit the Mangapwani Multi-Purpose Port and the Fumba Free Economic Zone during the trade mission.
The Kenyan delegation is part of a larger group of investors from 50 nationalities taking part in Equity Group's Tanzania and Zanzibar Trade Mission.
The forum brought together investors, government officials and business representatives to discuss investment opportunities in sectors including energy, construction, logistics, manufacturing, agriculture, tourism, financial services and the blue economy.
Speaking at the forum, Equity Group Director for Trade Relations AQ Hamza, on behalf of Group Managing Director and CEO Dr James Mwangi, said the trade mission was intended to connect investors with governments and businesses across the region.
"This Roadshow is more than a business mission, it is a platform for unlocking Africa's immense economic potential. By bringing together investors, government institutions and the private sector, we are creating partnerships that drive investment, expand trade and accelerate regional integration. Equity Group remains committed to facilitating cross-border commerce and empowering businesses to seize opportunities across Africa, with Zanzibar standing out as a strategic gateway for investment in the region."
ZIPA officials outlined investment procedures and incentives available to investors in the archipelago's Special Economic Zones, including tax incentives, long-term land leases and support through the authority's one-stop investment centre.
Director of Planning and Research at ZIPA Al haji Jecha said the trade mission had brought together businesses, investors and government institutions to explore investment opportunities.
"This trade mission provides an excellent platform to connect businesses, investors and government institutions, exchange ideas and build partnerships that promote investment, expand trade and unlock new opportunities for collaboration."
He said sectors represented at the forum, including construction, logistics, energy, manufacturing, agriculture and financial services, are among Zanzibar's priority investment areas.
ZIPA also reminded prospective investors that projects must be registered and approved before marketing or buyer solicitation, and advised them to verify developers' registration status and applicable investment incentives before committing funds.
The forum is part of Equity Group's four-day Tanzania and Zanzibar Trade and Investment Roadshow.
