#Tatu City #SEZ #Kenya #Nairobi #World Free Zones

Tatu City Appointed as Regional Office for the World Free Zones Organization

In a significant development for Kenya's economic landscape, Tatu City, which stands as the country's first mixed-use Special Economic Zone (SEZ), has been designated as the Regional Office and National Contact Point for the World Free Zones Organization (World FZO). This prestigious appointment highlights Tatu City’s commitment to leading the charge in SEZ development and economic transformation throughout East Africa.

The formal announcement took place during the 9th African Special Economic Zones Annual Meeting, held at the Kenyatta International Convention Centre in Nairobi. With over 400 global experts, policymakers, and business leaders in attendance, the event, commissioned by President William Ruto, sought to shape the future of SEZs across the African continent. This collaborative gathering was orchestrated by the Kenya Special Economic Zones Authority, the Ministry of Investments, Trade and Industry, along with other key stakeholders in the SEZ sector.

At the signing ceremony, Dr. Samir Hamrouni, CEO of the World Free Zones Organization, remarked, "The selection of Tatu City as the National Contact Point and Regional Office underscores its excellence as a Special Economic Zone. Tatu City has shown its ability to effectively represent both Kenya and the broader region, supporting the World FZO's vision of promoting economic growth and innovation through free zones."

Solomon Mahinda, Executive Vice President of Tatu City, expressed gratitude for the appointment, saying, "We are deeply honored by this designation and are eager to strengthen our partnership with the World Free Zones Organization. As the National Contact Point and Regional Office, Tatu City will lead the charge in attracting impactful investments, promoting best practices, and enhancing collaboration across the region to propel sustainable economic growth in Kenya and beyond."

This newly established role allows Tatu City to serve as Kenya's representative within the global free zones network, fostering stakeholder cooperation and overseeing regional activities. Furthermore, Tatu City will be responsible for expanding membership and driving initiatives of the World Free Zone Organization, ultimately raising the profile of African SEZs on a global stage.

This appointment builds on Tatu City’s established leadership in the SEZ arena; it is 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 the development of SEZs. Notably, last year, it was also appointed to the AEZO Steering Committee, further cementing its pivotal role in Africa’s SEZ landscape.

During the recent AEZO Gala Dinner Awards, Tatu City received accolades for its exceptional operational practices and unwavering support for AEZO initiatives.

Tatu City stands as a powerful testament to the transformative capabilities of SEZs. Currently, it boasts a population of around 26,400 residents, workers, and students, which is anticipated to swell to approximately 250,000 once the development reaches its full potential. Within its parameters, Tatu City is home to 88 businesses that include both international investors and local enterprises. One of its recent notable investors, Hewatele, is in the process of establishing a KES 2.8 billion medical oxygen plant, supported by funding from governments in the U.S., Canada, Finland, and Denmark, as well as the Soros Economic Development Fund.

For those wishing to know more about Tatu City, further details can be found at Tatu City or learn more about Rendeavour at Rendeavour. In addition, more information on the World FZO can be accessed via World FZO.