By Eddah Waithaka and Peace Muthoka
The Kenyan government is set to disburse Sh1.4 billion in compensation to 1,648 residents affected by the Dongo Kundu Special Economic Zone (SEZ) in Mombasa and Kwale counties. The compensation process for these Project Affected Persons (PAPs) will begin this week, marking a significant step in the government’s commitment to ensure the successful implementation of the SEZ.
During a press conference on August 26, 2024, Investments, Trade, and Industry CS Salim Mvurya confirmed that the Kenya Ports Authority (KPA) has completed the verification of the PAPs.
In addition to financial compensation, 400 acres of land have been set aside for resettlement to secure the livelihoods of those affected.
Mvurya’s announcement came after a meeting with key stakeholders, including KPA chair Benjamin Tayari, LAPSSET Corridor project chair Ali Mbogo, and Special Economic Zones Authority chair Fredrick Mutete. A total of 97 investors, both local and international, have expressed interest in setting up operations within the 3,000-acre SEZ.
The zone is expected to attract industries such as energy, pharmaceuticals, glass manufacturing, desalination, and fish processing.
To further drive economic growth, the government plans to gazette the Lamu Port-South Sudan-Ethiopia-Transport (LAPSSET) Corridor SEZ.
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Mvurya reiterated the government’s commitment to active and timely investment, issuing a warning to investors who may be hoarding licenses.
He stressed that the Special Economic Zones Authority will review licenses and may revoke those held by non-compliant investors if they do not report to their designated sites within six months.
These measures are part of the government’s broader strategy to enhance economic activities and investment opportunities in the region, contributing to the sustainability and increased utilization of the Lamu Port.
