Tatu City has been designated as the Regional Office and National Contact Point for the World Free Zones Organisation, solidifying its position as a leader in Special Economic Zone (SEZ) development and economic transformation in East Africa.
The official announcement was made during the 9th African Economic Zones Organisation Annual Meeting, held at the Kenyatta International Convention Centre in Nairobi. The event, inaugurated by President William Ruto, brought together over 400 global experts, policymakers, and business leaders to discuss the future of African SEZs. It was hosted by the Kenya Special Economic Zones Authority, the Ministry of Investments, Trade and Industry, and other key SEZ stakeholders.
Dr. Samir Hamrouni, CEO of the World Free Zones Organisation, highlighted the significance of this appointment during the signing ceremony. He stated, “The selection of Tatu City as both the National Contact Point and Regional Office is a testament to its excellence as a Special Economic Zone. Tatu City has demonstrated the capacity to represent Kenya and the region effectively and support World Free Zones Organisation’s global vision of fostering economic growth and innovation through free zones.”
Expressing gratitude, Solomon Mahinda, Executive Vice President of Tatu City, remarked, “We are deeply honoured by this appointment and excited to strengthen our collaboration with the World Free Zones Organisation. As the National Contact Point and Regional Office, Tatu City will spearhead efforts to attract impactful investments, promote best practices, and enhance regional collaboration, driving sustainable economic growth in Kenya and across Africa.”
In its role as the National Contact Point, Tatu City will represent Kenya in the global free zones network, fostering cooperation among stakeholders. As the Regional Office, it will oversee membership expansion, regional activities, and World Free Zones Organisation initiatives, while elevating African SEZs on the global stage.
This appointment builds upon Tatu City’s active involvement in SEZ leadership. As a founding member of the Association of Special Economic Zones (ASEZ) in Kenya and a member of the Africa Economic Zones Organization (AEZO), Tatu City has consistently championed innovation, governance, and sustainability in SEZs. Its position was further reinforced last year when it joined the AEZO Steering Committee, highlighting its leadership within Africa’s SEZ ecosystem.
During the AEZO Gala Dinner Awards, Tatu City was lauded for its outstanding SEZ operational practices and unwavering support for AEZO’s initiatives.
Currently, Tatu City is home to 26,400 residents, workers, and students, with projections for the population to reach 250,000 upon full completion. The city hosts 88 businesses, including global investors and local enterprises. Among its latest investors is Hewatele, which is establishing a KES 2.8 billion medical oxygen plant with funding from the US, Canadian, Finnish, and Danish governments, as well as the Soros Economic Development Fund.
