It all started in April 2024 with billionaire Robyn Fenty Rihanna's Fenty Beauty making its entry into Kenya. Now, according to Deputy President Kithure Kindiki, over 300 companies are set to establish operations in the country.
One of the most anticipated investors is global luxury brand Gucci, which is expected to set up shop at the Kenanie Leather Industrial Park in Mavoko, Machakos County.
Speaking at his official residence in Karen, Kindiki confirmed that Gucci has expressed interest in investing in Kenya. He emphasized that the Kenanie Leather Industrial Park will facilitate the processing of hides and skins into high-end leather goods, including designer bags, shoes, and accessories under Gucci's brand. This move is expected to significantly boost Kenya's economy.
During a consultative forum with Isiolo County leaders, the Deputy President reiterated that the completion of the park would elevate the leather sector's contribution to the economy. He projected that revenue from the sector would increase from Ksh. 10 billion to Ksh. 150 billion annually.
"Industries that manufacture leather products are now keen to set up shop in Kenanie. We have over 300 applicants, including top global brands like Gucci, which specialises in designer bags. That is how you transform a country," Kindiki said.
Founded in 1921 by Guccio Gucci in Florence, Italy, Gucci is one of the world's leading luxury brands. Ranked fourth globally by Interbrand-behind Louis Vuitton, Chanel, and Hermes-it operates 538 stores across 50 countries. While its manufacturing hubs are primarily in Italy, France, and Spain, Kenya could soon join this list. The brand generates over $10 billion in annual revenue and is the most-followed luxury label on social media, boasting over 40 million Instagram followers.
"You don't transform a country through hate, division, and tribalism. You develop a country by asking how to turn our God-given resources into wealth and distribute it to uplift those at the bottom of the pyramid," Kindiki remarked.
The Kenanie Industrial Park aims to process raw materials into leather and manufacture finished goods. The initiative is expected to create jobs, attract foreign investment, promote local production, and enhance Kenya's global trade reputation.
According to Kindiki, the increased demand for leather goods will benefit both local and foreign manufacturers. "This facility will offtake all the hides and skins from Kenya. Demand will rise, and so will prices," he noted.
Sitting on over 500 acres, the industrial park is set to become a major hub for footwear and leather goods. Final preparations, including road tarmacking, water treatment, and power upgrades, are underway.
The facility is expected to be completed and launched by the end of 2025.
