Murang’a Industrial Park Draws Investors, Generates Sh240 Million in Lease Revenue

By Anneth Chepngetich

Murang’a County is accelerating its industrialization agenda through the Murang’a Industrial Park, a flagship project established on the former Del Monte Kenya Limited land and increasingly attracting local and international investors.

So far, six companies have received allotment letters for land within the park, while a total of 44 allotment letters have been issued, granting investors 99-year lease agreements. More than half of the available land has already been allocated, signaling growing confidence in the project.

Governor Irungu Kang’ata said the county government has already generated Sh240 million from lease fees and plans to open applications for the remaining parcels soon.

“We have already allocated about 55 percent of the available land and will soon invite applications for the remaining parcels,” said Kang’ata.

He added that the county is positioning itself as a leading destination for industrial investment.

“We want Murang’a to become a leading industrial destination,” he said.

Among the investors already on board are Kenagro Industries and Ashland Traders Limited. Kenagro Director John Muhia said the company plans to establish a sunflower processing plant, creating new opportunities for local farmers.

“This will create a reliable market for local farmers and boost agricultural value addition in the county,” said Muhia.

Ashland Traders Director Sam Njoroge noted that securing lease documents would enhance the company’s ability to access financing for its planned investments.

“The lease documents will strengthen our ability to access financing and accelerate implementation of our projects,” he said.

Research indicates that Special Economic Zones (SEZs) and Export Processing Zones (EPZs) play a critical role in attracting investment by offering tax incentives, quality infrastructure, and a favorable business environment. These models have successfully driven industrial growth and job creation in many countries, including Kenya.

The Murang’a Industrial Park integrates both SEZ and EPZ frameworks to promote manufacturing, attract investment, and create employment opportunities. The county government expects the project to generate thousands of jobs, support local farmers through value addition, and increase county revenue.

With several investors already commencing factory construction, the project is steadily gaining momentum. Once fully operational, the industrial park is expected to transform Murang’a into one of Kenya’s leading manufacturing and industrial hubs.