The outgoing Cabinet Secretary (CS) for Investment, Trade, and Industry, Salim Mvurya, has officially passed the mantle to his successor, Lee Kinyanjui, marking a pivotal moment of continuity in government as both leaders emphasized the importance of collaboration and a shared vision for national development.
Speaking during the handover, Salim Mvurya, who is the new Cabinet Secretary for Youth Affairs, Creative Economy, and Sports, expressed confidence in Kinyanjui’s ability to lead the Ministry to new heights.
“Having served as a Governor, Member of Parliament and Assistant Minister, his leadership will undoubtedly drive reforms and strengthen ongoing initiatives in this Ministry,” he noted.
Mvurya outlined several critical programmes that Kinyanjui is expected to prioritise, including the rural industrialisation programme, which aims to boost local economies through partnerships with counties.
While the initiative initially targeted 19 counties, he revealed that plans are underway to expand it to all 47, fostering inclusive growth nationwide.
He highlighted Special Economic Zones (SEZs) as another key area of growth, stating that currently, there are 38 SEZs across the country, including public zones in Mombasa, Naivasha, and Dongo Kundu, alongside private zones. The zones, according to the CS, are instrumental in driving export-oriented industrialisation.
Additionally, he said that the export processing zones (EPZs) remain a cornerstone of economic expansion, with six flagship zones already operational and five more under development.
“As you take over, addressing pending issues such as land acquisition for two zones will be critical,” stressed Mvurya.
Mvurya also emphasized the importance of capitalising on newly signed trade agreements. He pointed to the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) and other regional agreements that have opened new markets for Kenyan products.
The CS noted that the recent partnerships, such as the Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement (CEPA) with the UAE, provide opportunities for Kenya’s agricultural and livestock products to penetrate Middle Eastern markets. Similarly, ongoing negotiations with the U.S. under a Strategic Investment Partnership Agreement are expected to attract foreign investments and expand trade.
He noted that in the past year, significant strides had been made in creating a conducive business environment where the enactment of the Business Laws Amendment Act and ongoing legislative reforms aim to enhance ease of doing business.
“Investment has risen to Sh230 billion, with a steady inflow of both foreign and domestic investors. This progress must continue under your leadership,” he urged.
Further, Mvurya underscored the importance of teamwork across Ministries to achieve national objectives as he pledged his continued support, emphasising a Government approach to tackling challenges and delivering results.
“The President’s commitment to transforming this country requires all of us to work as a team. I’m confident that the CEOs, directors, and professionals in this sector will fully support you in delivering on your mandate,” he assured.
Making his remarks, the newly appointed Cabinet Secretary for the Ministry of Investment, Trade, and Industry, Lee Kinyanjui, expressed gratitude for the guidance and pledged to build on the foundation laid by his predecessor, whose experience and collaborative leadership style are expected to drive the Ministry toward achieving its ambitious goals.
“As Kenya continues its journey towards economic transformation, this seamless transition promises continuity, innovation, and a renewed commitment to building a thriving nation,” implored Kinyanjui, emphasising the need for mechanisms to support industries adapting to technological shifts and economic challenges.
He acknowledged that some businesses may close as technology advances, hence calling for proactive measures to ensure industry resilience and mitigate negative impacts on employment and investments.
He noted the government’s plans to collaborate with parliament and industry stakeholders to introduce reforms, including predictable taxation and regulatory frameworks, to foster stability.
Kinyanjui said Kenya’s untapped potential in utilising economic partnership agreements with the European Union (EU) and UAE, stressing the importance of aligning local industries to benefit from expanded markets.
He also emphasized the need to boost local manufacturing, ensure product quality and safety, and strengthen the economy by increasing exports, as well as expressing optimism that these measures would create jobs, enhance economic stability, and position Kenya as a competitive player in the global market.
By Sharon Atieno and Jesse Otieno