East African Economies Target Manufacturing to Reduce Import Dependence
By The Urban Gazette Regional Desk
Nairobi/Kigali
Governments across East Africa are accelerating manufacturing investments in a bid to cut reliance on imports and strengthen regional trade.
Kenya, Tanzania, and Rwanda have announced new industrial parks and tax incentives aimed at attracting investors in textiles, pharmaceuticals, and agro-processing. Analysts say the strategy could boost job creation but warn infrastructure and energy costs remain major hurdles.
Why It Matters
Economic resilience: Local manufacturing reduces exposure to global supply shocks.
Jobs potential: Industrial growth could absorb thousands of young workers.
Regional integration: Stronger production supports African Continental Free Trade Area goals.
What to Watch
π Factory rollouts: Which projects move from announcement to reality?
β‘ Energy supply: Power reliability will determine success.
