Deputy President Kithure Kindiki has shared exciting news: more than 300 companies, including famous luxury brands like Gucci, want to start operations at the Kenanie Leather Industrial Park in Mavoko, Machakos County.
Kindiki explained that this park will turn hides and skins into high-quality leather products, such as shoes, bags, and accessories. This project is expected to greatly help Kenya’s economy. He mentioned that when the park is finished, the leather industry could grow from contributing Ksh. 10 billion to Ksh. 150 billion each year.
“Many companies that produce leather goods want to set up in Kenanie. Over 300 companies have applied, including well-known brands like Gucci, which makes designer bags. This is how we can change our country,” Kindiki said.
He was speaking at a meeting with leaders from Isiolo County at the Deputy President’s official residence. He added, “You don’t make a country better by spreading hate or division. You build a better country by asking, ‘How can we turn our natural resources into wealth and help many people, especially those in need?’”
Once it opens, the industrial park will be a place to add value, turning raw hides into leather and creating final products. This will help produce more locally, create jobs, attract foreign investors, and improve Kenya’s reputation in global trade.
Kindiki also mentioned that the park will create such a high demand for hides and skins that the local supply may not be enough, which is a big opportunity for local businesses and international investors.
“The demand will be so high that it will take all the hides and skins from Kenya. Prices will go up because of the high demand,” he said.
The Deputy President also noted that work is moving ahead on important preparations for the industrial park, including paving roads, upgrading power, and finishing a water treatment plant. The Kenanie Leather Industrial Park is expected to open by the end of the year.
This park, which covers over 500 acres, aims to be a complete centre for leather, footwear, leather goods, and related industries. Applications for space at the park from potential investors are still ongoing.
