Kenya woos foreign investors to boost construction manufacturing

Kenya is seeking to attract foreign manufacturers to establish local production facilities for building materials, targeting a housing deficit of more than two million units while positioning the country as a regional construction hub.

Kenya National Chamber of Commerce and Industry (KNCCI) President Erick Rutto said the country’s affordable housing programme presents an opportunity to attract investment, create jobs and reduce reliance on imported construction materials.

Speaking during the opening of the ninth Big 5 Construct Kenya exhibition in Nairobi, Rutto said incentives for local production and predictable government policies would be critical in attracting investors.

“If we are able to attract them and provide for them incentives for local production, definitely we are going to achieve the target of covering the over two million houses that we need,” he said.

Rutto said manufacturers could also use Kenya as a base to serve regional markets under the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA), adding that the country needed to expand production alongside housing development.

He noted that participation by Italian companies at the exhibition had increased from 17 last year to 21 this year, reflecting growing business interest.

“The most important thing that the private sector looks at, both local and international, is the policy. And the policy must be long-term, consistent and not changing each and every time,” Rutto said.

The exhibition, running until October 23 at Sarit Expo Centre, has attracted more than 150 exhibitors from over 25 countries, showcasing construction materials, ceramics, plumbing systems, electrical installations and building equipment.

Josine Heijmans, Senior Vice President at organiser dmg events, said Kenya’s housing, transport and infrastructure projects were creating opportunities for international companies.

“Kenya is one of the fastest-growing markets in Africa, with strong investment opportunities in housing, transport and infrastructure under Vision 2030,” Heijmans said.

Heijmans said the exhibition enables businesses to compare products, explore new technologies and establish partnerships with local industry players.

KNCCI and the organisers are also facilitating business-to-business meetings to connect international suppliers with Kenyan firms and encourage investment deals.

The event features sustainable construction solutions, including energy-efficient panels and environmentally friendly paints, alongside professional discussions on regulatory compliance, risk management and construction standards.