The government has reaffirmed its commitment to leveraging public-private partnerships as a key driver of Kenya’s industrialization and investment agenda.
Speaking during the opening of the inaugural MNL Africa Leadership Circle 2026 in Nairobi, the Principal Secretary, State Department for Industry, Dr. Juma Mukhwana said collaboration between the government, the private sector, regional blocs, and global partners remain critical in accelerating industrial growth and positioning Kenya as a leading investment destination.
Dr. Mukhwana noted that Kenya has made significant progress in advancing its industrialization agenda through the implementation of strategic industrial and investment projects aimed at enhancing economic growth, job creation, and competitiveness.
“Kenya continues to make tremendous strides towards actualizing industrialization through the implementation of key industrialization and investment projects and other strategic interventions,” the PS stated.
The PS observed that Kenya and African continent in general possess immense opportunities and resources, including a youthful population and innovation, technology, and digital capabilities that position the region as an attractive destination for trade and investment.
However, Dr Mukhwana emphasized the need for a mindset shift to further strengthen Africa’s position as the next frontier for industrialization and global investment.
His sentiments were echoed by other leaders present including Julius Ruto and Irene Mayaka during a panel discussion themed: “Bridging Traditional Capital Markets and Digital Financial Innovation: Pathways to Inclusive, Resilient Financing.”
The leaders underscored Parliament’s commitment to supporting legislations that enhances Kenya’s industrialization prospects while promoting technology, innovation, and financial inclusion as critical enablers of economic transformation.
Everlyne Mbula Nzuki, Founder and Managing Partner of MN Legal (MNL Advocates LLP) emphasized the need for stronger alignment between policy, capital, and development ambitions across Africa.
“Africa has never lacked opportunity. What it has often lacked is alignment between capital and policy, ambition and infrastructure, and vision and execution,” she said.
Nzuki highlighted the importance of inclusive growth, noting that sustainable development can only be achieved through collaboration among governments, investors, regulators, professionals and development institutions.
On investment and financial sector development, Daniel Mainda, the Chief Executive Officer, Nairobi International Financial Centre Authority, emphasized the importance of strategic reforms, robust regulatory frameworks, and global engagement in enhancing Africa’s competitiveness and attractiveness to investors.
He noted that strengthening institutional reforms, providing investor-focused incentives, and deepening engagement with international financial markets, multilateral institutions, and sovereign investors remain essential in positioning Kenya and Africa as preferred investment destinations.
Mainda further observed that Africa’s long-term economic prospects remain strong, supported by favorable demographics, rapid urbanization, digital transformation, and growing regional integration through initiatives such as the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA).
“With a population of over 1.4 billion people accelerating digital adoption, and continental integration through initiatives such as the AfCFTA, Africa represents one of the most compelling growth markets globally,” he said.
The leadership forum, held under the theme “Doing Business in Kenya & Africa,” has brought together business leaders, policymakers, regulators, legal practitioners, investors, development institutions, and private sector executives from five continents to explore opportunities and challenges shaping Africa’s economic future.
Participants are expected to generate actionable insights and forge strategic partnerships that will strengthen Africa’s business environment, boost investor confidence, and advance sustainable economic development across the continent.
by Jared Ombagi
