Mombasa Senator Mohammed Faki has called on the County Government of Mombasa to ensure residents are fully involved in decisions surrounding the development of the proposed Special Economic Zone (SEZ) in Jomvu.

Speaking in the Senate, Faki said the project has the potential to transform Mombasa’s economy by attracting investment, creating employment opportunities and driving economic growth.

The proposed SEZ is part of a Sh12 billion agreement involving the County Government of Mombasa, Mombasa Free Zone and DP World. The 535-acre project is expected to attract manufacturing, logistics and export-oriented businesses, with thousands of jobs projected in its first phase. 

Faki, however, stressed that the economic benefits of the project must be accompanied by transparency and meaningful public participation.

“The County Government must ensure that residents are fully involved in decisions concerning the project,” Faki said.

He called on the county administration to make public the agreement between the County Government and DP World, saying residents have a right to understand the terms and commitments surrounding a project of such magnitude.

The Senator further urged the county government to begin preparing local residents, particularly young people, to take advantage of employment opportunities expected to arise from the SEZ.

Faki said the county should establish clear mechanisms to train and equip Mombasa youth with the technical and professional skills required by industries that will set up operations within the zone.

“The opportunities created by this transformative project must benefit the people of Mombasa. We need to prepare our youth today so that they are ready for the jobs that will be created tomorrow,” he said.

The SEZ is expected to strengthen Mombasa’s position as a regional manufacturing, logistics and export hub, with the project also anticipated to create opportunities for traders, transport operators and other local businesses.