CS for Investments, Trade, and Industry Salim Mvurya says the government has released Sh3 billion to roll out construction of 5 export processing zones in the country.
He said the money would be used to build the first phase of the EPZA areas, which would help to create more than 100,000 jobs.
Mvurya spoke when he presided over the laying of a foundation stone for the Eldoret EPZA zone at Langas in Eldoret, which is expected to create more than 3,000 direct jobs.
He said Sh400 million would be used to complete the first phase of the project by the end of November.
“The construction work will be complete by November, and President Ruto will be here to unveil the completed work, after which we will work to bring in investors," Mvurya said.
CS Mvurya said the zones will also help to create other indirect jobs for youth in the country.
The zones will also help to increase and strengthen manufacturing in the six zones, which include Muranga Nakuru, Busia, Kirinyaga and Eldoret, Mvurya said.
Mvurya also laid the foundation stone for the Count Aggregation and Industrial Park (CAIP) at Moiben, which he said would help to spur economic growth in the region
He was with PSs in the ministry, Abubakar Hassan (State Department for Investment Promotion) and Juma Mukwhana (State Department for Industrialisation) along with Uasin Gishu Governor Jonathan Bii.
Bii says the EPZA would set new beginnings as many collapsed industries would roar back to life in the region.
“As Eldoret City, We are set to become a major hub for industrial growth in all key sectors of our economy”, said Bii.
He said the county was working all stakeholders to put in place a conducive environment for investors in the city, including provision of water and other incentives for investors.