KENYA LAUNCHES NATIONWIDE INDUSTRIAL MAPPING AND GEO-LOCATION EXERCISE TO BOOST INDUSTRIAL GROWTH

KENYA LAUNCHES NATIONWIDE INDUSTRIAL MAPPING AND GEO-LOCATION EXERCISE TO BOOST INDUSTRIAL GROWTH

A section of data researchers at the launch of the nationwide industrial mapping and geo-location exercise in Nairobi County, an initiative aimed at creating a comprehensive industrial database to support evidence-based planning and policy-making.

By MAXIMILLA WAFULA,

The County Diary News Reporter

Nairobi, May 12th  2025-The Kenya National Bureau of Statistics (KNBS), in collaboration with the State Department for Industry and Kenya Industrial Estates (KIE), officially launched a vital initiative aimed at mapping and geo-locating industries in Nairobi County. This exercise, which commenced today, is part of a larger effort to create a comprehensive national database and directory of industries. It is a key step toward advancing Kenya's industrialization agenda and supporting sustainable economic growth.

Isaac Degwa, Senior Manager at KNBS spoke on behalf of the Principal Secretary of the State Department for Industry, highlighting the significance of this initiative in transforming Kenya's industrial sector. The goal of the exercise is to generate accurate, up-to-date data to guide the government's industrial policies. This mapping initiative will encompass industries of all sizes, ranging from small-scale enterprises to large manufacturers, and is aligned with the government’s Bottom-up Economic Transformation Agenda (BETA).

The exercise, titled *Mapping, Geo-Location of Industries, and Development of Industrial Database & Directory for Nairobi City County*, is set to span 15 days. It will involve the systematic collection of data from industries across Nairobi. The key information gathered will include the size of industries, their locations, operational capacities, employment figures, and any challenges that may affect their growth and development.

The data collected from this exercise is expected to play a crucial role in enhancing industrial policy-making, promoting investment, and aligning government support with the real needs of manufacturers. Additionally, it will provide insights into opportunities for the development of industrial clusters, infrastructure improvements, and expanded market access, all of which are critical to achieving Kenya's industrialization goals.

Though the initial phase of the exercise is focused on Nairobi, the broader vision is to roll out the mapping initiative nationwide. After the successful completion of data collection in Nairobi, the exercise will extend to other regions across Kenya. The aim is to establish a comprehensive industrial map that can guide future industrialization efforts and improve the government's ability to support industries of all sizes, from small enterprises to large corporations.

The exercise is designed to capture all industries, including small-scale and cottage industries, ensuring that every establishment in the country is included in the national directory. The data collected will provide a detailed, geo-located view of Kenya’s industrial landscape, making it easier for policymakers, investors, and industry players to identify opportunities and plan effectively.

The success of this exercise relies on the collaborative efforts of multiple stakeholders. The KNBS, KIE, and the State Department for Industry are working closely together to ensure the smooth execution of the mapping and data collection process. The technical teams involved have been commended for their dedication and hard work, with an emphasis on professionalism, integrity, and transparency throughout the exercise.

Representatives from KIE also highlighted the importance of the initiative in supporting Kenya’s industrial growth. The data gathered will not only assist the government in better planning but will also inform infrastructure development, resource allocation, and skills development to support industries across the country.

While the data collection in Nairobi will take 15 days, the analysis and report writing will proceed concurrently. The final report, along with the industrial database, is expected to be ready by June 15, 2025. Following the Nairobi phase, the exercise will continue in other regions, with the goal of creating a nationwide industrial database that will serve as a critical tool for planning and decision-making in the industrial sector.

The industrial mapping exercise represents a major milestone in Kenya’s journey toward a more industrialized economy. By documenting the country’s industrial landscape in detail, the initiative will provide essential insights for policymakers, investors, and businesses alike, helping to drive growth and development across the sector.

As the initiative unfolds, there is hope that it will become a model of collaboration, efficiency, and data-driven decision-making. Ultimately, it aims to transform Kenya’s industrial sector into a key driver of economic growth, positioning the country as a competitive player in the regional and global markets.