Konza Technopolis in Machakos County has set a target of creating 10,000 jobs as its first investors start textile production.
Lucky DJX, among the early investors, moved from construction to producing everyday clothing fabrics.
CEO John Paul Okwiri of the Technopolis Development Authority said the Export Processing Zone could accommodate multiple factories and will aid job creation as more investors set up operations.
He also noted that the park has built roughly 40 km of internal roads, power distribution, water treatment and wastewater reclamation facilities to support factories without requiring them to provide all services.
The technopolis is courting manufacturers in electronics, solar products and accessories to broaden its industrial base.
Okwiri explained that manufacturing activity will generate ancillary business for transport operators, food vendors, suppliers and other service providers.
Surrounding community businesses are expected to benefit from higher demand for goods and services as the park expands.
The ability to meet the 10,000-job goal will hinge on the number and size of factories and the speed of production growth, as well as alignment of training with manufacturers’ needs.
Overall, the success of Konza’s plans depends on attracting investors and converting projects into operating factories, supporting Kenya’s aim to grow manufacturing and employ its young population.
