Murang'a County is set to establish an industrial city on land ceded by Delmonte Kenya, aiming to create a city larger than Nairobi's 350 acres. The county government plans to use the Sh120 million raised from activities to provide additional revenue for county programs and infrastructure development. Governor Irungu Kang'ata stated that with funding from development partners, Murang'a is poised to have a bigger city that will offload tens of industries from Nairobi.
The county government issued 44 allotment letters for 99-year leases to investors five months ago, with most beginning to construct industrial and warehouse facilities. Governor Kang'ata said the county is attracting local and foreign investors to set up business enterprises in Murang'a, which will create employment for over 20,000 people. The county is leasing land to manufacturers at Sh7 million, against the projected value of Sh35 million per acre.
The allocated land will be used for various purposes, including an EPZ (50 acres), Murang'a MediCity (75 acres), Light, Medium and Heavy Industries (276 acres), Technology and Innovation Hub (23 acres), Commercial Hub (43 acres), Stadium (10 acres), and Recreational Area (57 acres). Other allocations include a modern market (2.6 acres), bus station (three acres), schools and colleges (16 acres), housing (12 acres), Affordable Housing (22 acres), and infrastructure (134 acres).
Under the proposed arrangement, the county government will receive 10% of corporate tax for the first 10 years of firms' operations, increasing to 15% for the next 10 years and 30% in subsequent years. The Murang'a County Assembly is considering a bill to establish an autonomous authority to manage the industrial park, which will help create investment incentives for businesses operating in the county.
The industrial city aims to revitalize the county's economic structures and provide a major boost to the local community. Governor Kang'ata emphasized that the county is committed to attracting investors and creating employment opportunities. The establishment of the industrial city is expected to have a positive impact on the local economy.
The county government's efforts to establish the industrial city have been underway for some time, with investors showing interest in setting up businesses in Murang'a. The county's strategic location and availability of land make it an attractive destination for investors. The industrial city is expected to contribute to Kenya's economic growth.
The proposed industrial city is a significant development for Murang'a County, and its success will depend on effective implementation and management. Key stakeholders, including investors and county officials, will play a crucial role in ensuring the project's success. The county government's commitment to transparency and accountability will be essential in attracting and retaining investors.
Key points
- Murang'a County plans to build an industrial city on 1,400 acres of land to rival Nairobi.
- The county government aims to create employment for over 20,000 people through the establishment of the industrial city.
- The industrial city is expected to contribute to Kenya's economic growth and provide a major boost to the local community.
