The Kenya Development Corporation (KDC) has identified various sectors, including the blue economy, where both local and international investors can allocate their funds to drive the growth of their enterprises. KDC is extending an invitation to investors, urging them to seize the opportunities presented in Kenya’s manufacturing, tourism, agriculture, healthcare, energy, post-harvest management, and ICT sectors. These investment opportunities were unveiled during the 3rd Kenya International Investment Conference (KIICO).
Within the manufacturing sector, KDC has specifically highlighted the Isiolo meat and airport development projects, as well as the establishment of expansive industrial sheds spanning 8.4 million square feet in Athi River Export Processing Zone (EPZ). Additionally, investors are encouraged to consider the financial district set to be established at Two Rivers Mall in Nairobi, which is supported by Centum.
KDC is actively seeking private equity partners for a flour milling company, with an estimated investment of $1.6 million. Furthermore, there is a potential deal in the pipeline where an investor is expected to provide $2 million in working capital financing for a fruit processor in an EPZ. The target company specializes in processing fresh mango and banana fruit into mango puree and banana concentrate for export.
In the healthcare sector, KDC aims to secure a strategic partner willing to inject $8 million in working capital to facilitate the expansion and modernization of a locally owned pharmaceutical manufacturing company. This company currently produces generic medicines for the domestic market. Another healthcare opportunity involves a partnership to invest $10 million in a healthcare technology platform, intended to enhance existing infrastructure.
Moreover, there is an investment opportunity of $11.5 million available, with 50 percent allocated to growth capital and 50 percent to cash yield capital. This investment would be directed towards a well-established local investment firm with over 35 years of market experience.
Within the financial services realm, KDC is seeking a $3 million investment in convertible debt to recapitalize a company that specializes in payment automation and expense management services.
The alcoholic beverages manufacturing and distribution industry in Kenya is also open to investors. KDC is actively searching for a strategic partner willing to inject working capital of $1 million into a company operating in this sector.
During a Special Concurrent session on Unlocking the Challenges Facing African SMEs, Norah Ratemo, the Acting Director General of KDC, expressed the corporation’s commitment to supporting the development of small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) across the country. KDC aims to invest in viable businesses during their early stages of development, providing financial, technical expertise, and market access to derisk these enterprises and make them attractive to investors. As these businesses mature, KDC divests its stake, allowing the organization to reinvest in new ventures while continuing to support the development of Kenyan SMEs.
KDC invites interested investors to capitalize on these opportunities and contribute to the growth of Kenya’s flourishing economy. “Kenya is a land of abundant opportunities and is ripe for investment,” stated Ms. Ratemo. She emphasized the country’s youthful and expanding population, stable political environment, declining energy costs, and strong economic foundation. Additionally, she highlighted Kenya’s strategic position as a gateway to the East African Community and the broader African continent, making it an ideal destination for both local and international investors.
Established in 2020, the Kenya Development Corporation (KDC) is a Development Finance Institution resulting from the merger of the operations of the Industrial and Commercial Development Corporation (ICDC), Tourism Finance Corporation (TFC), and IDB Capital Limited.
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