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Athi River Export Processing Zone
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Industrial site
The Athi River Export Processing Zone (EPZ) is the flagship of Kenya's EPZ program, located in Athi River town, Machakos County, near Nairobi. Established in 1990 under the Export Processing Zones Act, it provides a specialized environment for export-oriented enterprises and plays a central role in the country's industrialization strategy. The 339-hectare site hosts over 70 enterprises specializing in diverse sectors, including textile manufacturing, pharmaceuticals, food processing, and chemicals. Companies operating here benefit from fiscal incentives such as a ten-year corporate tax holiday, duty-free imports, and high-quality industrial infrastructure. The zone is a major regional employer, providing jobs to thousands of Kenyans, particularly in the garment industry. Its proximity to Jomo Kenyatta International Airport and the Nairobi-Mombasa Highway makes it logistically convenient. The EPZ contributes significantly to Kenya's foreign exchange earnings, as the majority of goods produced are destined for export to the USA (under the AGOA agreement) and Europe. Continuous capacity expansion underlines Kenya's commitment to becoming a leading manufacturing hub in Africa.
- Location: Kenya
- Nearby: Ruiru (27 km)
Best time to visit & climate
The most pleasant time to visit is Jan, Feb, Sep.
| Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Avg °C | 21 | 21 | 22 | 21 | 19 | 19 | 19 | 19 | 20 | 21 | 20 | 20 |
| Rain mm | 39 | 29 | 64 | 114 | 73 | 25 | 16 | 22 | 20 | 53 | 81 | 65 |
📋 Practical info
What is this place?
The Athi River Export Processing Zone is a major hub for textile and apparel manufacturing, driving Kenya’s export economy. It attracts international brands and provides thousands of local jobs.
Visiting
The industrial zone is closed to the public, but its perimeter can be observed from adjacent roads. No official tours are offered, so viewing is limited to external areas.
Where to view it
The best public viewpoint is from the Mombasa Road near the Athi River junction. Alternatively, the nearby Athi River town has a distant overview of the industrial skyline.
Local products
Textiles and garments produced here are exported globally, but local markets sell fabric remnants. Seasonal cotton harvests from surrounding farms supply the factories.
Active season
Production runs year-round, with peak output during global fashion retail cycles. The zone is busiest before major export seasons like Christmas and summer.
Nearby
Combine a visit with Nairobi National Park for a contrast of industry and savannah. The Athi River town itself gives local markets and street food.
Geography
Facts
- Established in 1990 under the Export Processing Zones Act.
- Located in Athi River town, Machakos County, near Nairobi.
- Covers an area of approximately 339 hectares of industrial land.
- Home to over 70 enterprises specializing in diverse sectors.
- Provides tax incentives and duty-free imports for export firms.
- Employs thousands of workers, primarily in the garment industry.
Explore nearby
Notable places around
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Sights in the town Athi River Export Processing Zone (1)
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Frequently asked questions
What does EPZ stand for?
EPZ stands for Export Processing Zone, an area with tax incentives for exporters.
What is produced in Athi River EPZ?
Primarily textiles, apparel, and other consumer goods for the global market.
Can you visit the factories?
Access is usually closed to the public except for business appointments.
Where is the zone located?
It is located in Athi River, about 30 km southeast of Nairobi.
Why is the location important?
Proximity to Jomo Kenyatta Airport and the highway is convenient for exports.
Athi River Export Processing Zone: where is it located?
Athi River Export Processing Zone is located in Kenya.
Athi River Export Processing Zone: when is the best time to visit?
The most pleasant time to visit is Jan, Feb, Sep.
Athi River Export Processing Zone: why is it worth visiting?
The Athi River Export Processing Zone (EPZ) is the flagship of Kenya's EPZ program, located in Athi River town, Machakos County, near Nairobi.
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