Tatu City, Kenya’s first operational mixed-use Special Economic Zone (SEZ), recently hosted a distinguished Japanese delegation led by the Japan Ministry of Foreign Affairs. The group, comprising 40 executives from 25 top Japanese companies, arrived in Kenya to explore investment opportunities in the country’s Special Economic Zones (SEZs), underscoring the growing interest in Kenya’s vibrant economic landscape.
The visit, which included stops in both Kenya and Tanzania, marks a significant step in fostering economic collaboration between Japan and Kenya. The delegation represented diverse sectors, including manufacturing, technology, automotive, renewable energy, healthcare, agriculture, banking, and infrastructure development. This range of industries highlights the broad potential for partnership, with Japan looking to tap into Kenya’s rapidly developing economy and its strategic positioning as a gateway to both regional and global markets.
“Tatu City is honored to host this prestigious delegation. As Kenya’s flagship Special Economic Zone and a pioneer city for Rendeavour in Africa, we provide a world-class platform for global businesses to thrive,” said Preston Mendenhall, Group COO of Rendeavour, the company behind Tatu City. “With unparalleled infrastructure, streamlined processes, and a vibrant community, Tatu City is perfectly positioned for international businesses to establish a foothold in Kenya and beyond.”
The Japanese delegation toured several key businesses within Tatu City. Notable stops included CCI Global, a 5,000-seat call center in Tatu Central, Dormans Coffee, a leading coffee exporter, and Freight Forwarders Solutions, an end-to-end logistics provider covering East and Central Africa. These visits showcased the diverse industries thriving in Tatu City and highlighted the practical benefits of operating within the SEZ, such as access to top-tier facilities and a supportive regulatory environment.
At present, 88 companies operate or are under development within Tatu City, providing over 25,000 jobs and contributing more than KES 400 billion in investments. These investments span multiple countries, including Kenya, China, the United States, and several European nations, reflecting Tatu City’s international appeal. Notable international financial backers include the International Finance Corporation, Soros Fund for Economic Development, and the U.S. International Development Finance Corporation.
As a strategic national project under Kenya’s Vision 2030, Tatu City is crucial to the country’s economic transformation. Its growing status as a hub for both local and international businesses speaks to the immense potential of Kenya’s SEZs in driving economic growth and regional integration.
Japan’s keen interest in Kenya signals a bright future for SEZs in the country, positioning Tatu City as a critical part of Kenya’s efforts to become an economic powerhouse in Africa.
