The National Government has started the compensation process of a total of 1,648 persons affected by the multi-billion international Dongo Kundu Special Economic Zone (SEZ) being implemented along the Mombasa and Kwale Counties border.
The 1.4 billion shillings according to the government has been set aside and the process is scheduled to begin this week.
Investments, Trade and Industry Cabinet Secretary Salim Mvurya, confirmed that the Kenya Ports Authority (KPA) has accomplished the verification process of the Project Affected Persons (PAPs), adding that a total of 400 acres of land have been allocated for the resettlement of the affected persons, ensuring that their livelihoods are safeguarded.
“The compensation process will begin this week. We have agreed to work together with relevant stakeholders to ensure that we address all the obstacles to ensure that this project is fully realised,” stated CS Mvurya.
97
According to Mvurya, a total of 97 investors have confirmed their investments at the Dongo Kundu SEZ, with some having already started the processes at the 3,000-acre SEZ.
“60% of the investors are local while 40% are international investors. Key sectors such as energy, pharmaceuticals and glass manufacturing are among the industries expected to set foot in the zone,” added the Investments CS.
Mvurya added that the government will also gazette the Lamu Port South Sudan-Ethiopia Corridor Development Authority (LAPSSET) SEZ, saying that already investors in the Desalination, Fish Processing, and pharmaceutical sectors have expressed interest as the government aims to accelerate efforts to heighten investment and business activities in the region.
He said the LAPSSET SEZ is a new frontier for robust investment, which will significantly contribute to the sustainability and increased activity at the Lamu Port.
Caution
CS Mvurya further reiterated the government’s stand against dormant investors who are hoarding licenses within the SEZs. He warned that the Special Economic Zones Authority (SEZA) will be reviewing the list of investors, with the possibility of revoking licenses.
“I urge investors to abide by the six-month grace period. If not, the licenses will berepealed by the Authority,” he asserted.
The Investments CS was speaking after a harmonisation meeting with the Kenya Ports Authority led by Chairperson Benjamin Tayari, LAPPSET Authority Board led by Chairperson Ali Mbogo and Special Economic Zones Authority Spearheaded by Chairperson Fredrick Mutete where he called for coordinated efforts and policy harmonisation to address any challenges and ensure the expedited realisation of these critical economic projects.
