Mukhwana Sounds Call for Investment as Kenya Seeks Industrial Growth

By Michael Nyamai -

Nairobi, Kenya, October 14, 2026 — The government is seeking to transform Kenya from a net importer into a competitive manufacturing and export hub, with the 2026 Kenya Industrialization Summit expected to drive investment, boost local production and expand markets for Kenyan-made goods.

Principal Secretary for Industry Dr. Juma Mukhwana addresses the media in Nairobi during the announcement of the 2026 Kenya Industrialization Summit, set for November 2–7 at KICC, as the government targets increased manufacturing output, investment and growth of Made-in-Kenya products. Photo: Courtesy

Principal Secretary for Industry Dr. Juma Mukhwana announced that the week-long summit will run from November 2 to 7 at the Kenyatta International Convention Centre (KICC), bringing together more than 2,000 participants, investors, policymakers and industry players.

“Manufacturing still contributes approximately 8% of GDP, against our national target of 15% by 2027 and 20% by 2030,” Mukhwana said, pointing to infrastructure gaps, low technology uptake and weak links between industry and research as key challenges.

The summit, themed “Driving Industrial Growth through Investment, Manufacturing, Trade, Innovation and Sustainable Financing,” will focus on turning these challenges into investment opportunities while strengthening Kenya’s industrial competitiveness.

Mukhwana said the gathering would feature exhibitions of locally manufactured products, business-to-business engagements and discussions on digitalization, green industrialization and the circular economy.

“From this Summit we expect five clear outcomes,” he said, citing stronger industrial policies, increased investment commitments, improved collaboration between government and industry, greater visibility for Made-in-Kenya products and wider participation of women, youth, persons with disabilities and micro, small and medium enterprises in manufacturing value chains.

President William Ruto is expected to grace the summit, which will also bring together Cabinet Secretaries, governors, industry leaders, development partners and regional and international investors.

The event is expected to provide a platform for showcasing Kenyan innovations and strengthening the country’s position as a regional industrial hub, with shoppers also expected to purchase locally made products on display at KICC.

Mukhwana called on Kenyans, investors and innovators to participate in the summit, saying the country must work collectively towards building a strong and sustainable industrial base.

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