Kenya Targets USD 2 Billion as It Announces KIICO 2026
Kenya Targets USD 2 Billion as It Announces KIICO 2026
The Government of Kenya has announced the 4th Kenya International Investment Conference (KIICO) 2026, scheduled for 25–27 March 2026 in Nairobi.
Through the conference, Kenya aims to attract USD 2 billion in strategic investments to drive job creation, enterprise growth, and economic transformation across priority sectors.
The Kenya Investment Authority (Invest Kenya), under the Ministry of Investments, Trade and Industry, will convene the conference.
It will bring together local and international investors, Kenyan businesses, policymakers, and development partners. Together, they will focus on unlocking capital for projects aligned with national development priorities.
Driving Investment Under the Bottom-Up Economic Transformation Agenda
KIICO 2026 plays a central role in implementing the Bottom-Up Economic Transformation Agenda (BETA). Notably, the conference prioritises employment creation across key sectors.
These include agriculture, textiles and apparel, BPO and ICT, leather, e-mobility, clean cooking, renewable energy, mining, the circular economy, and the creative sector.
In addition, the conference will spotlight enabling ecosystems. These include economic zones, industrial infrastructure, and access to finance, all of which support sustainable investment.
Speaking during the announcement, Abubakar Hassan Abubakar, Principal Secretary in the State Department for Investment Promotion, said the conference aims to turn interest into impact.
“KIICO 2026 focuses on scaling investments that deliver real results for Kenyans,” said PS Abubakar. “These include more jobs, stronger industries, and sustainable growth across counties. Importantly, the USD 2 billion target reflects Kenya’s growing investment potential.”
Kenya Targets USD 2 Billion as It Announces KIICO 2026
A Multi-Forum Platform for Capital and Execution
The three-day event will feature three flagship forums. First, the Kenya International Investment Conference (KIICO 2026) will take place on 25 March. Next, the 2nd COMESA Investment Forum will follow on 26 March.
Finally, the Africa Green Industrialization Initiative (AGII) Forum will conclude the programme on 27 March.
According to Invest Kenya Chief Executive Officer John Mwendwa, the conference will emphasise execution, not just dialogue.
“Our priority is converting sector opportunities into real investment commitments,” said Mwendwa. “KIICO 2026 connects investors to bankable projects that expand production, create jobs, and accelerate growth.”
Strengthening Kenya’s Investment Position
KIICO 2026 builds on earlier editions that boosted investor confidence and fostered cross-sector partnerships. As a result, the 2026 conference is expected to attract thousands of participants. This turnout will further reinforce Kenya’s position as a competitive and resilient investment destination.
George Olaka, CEO of ARISE IIP Kenya, described the moment as strategic. “Kenya stands at an inflection point,” he said. “Now, the focus must shift from attracting capital to directing it into value chains, production, and jobs.”
Financial Sector Support for Investors
Meanwhile, financial institutions have reaffirmed their support for the conference. KCB Bank Kenya will participate as part of its broader investment strategy.
“KCB’s involvement reflects our commitment to structured and sustainable investments,” said David Nyamu, General Manager for Sovereign and Public Sector at KCB Bank Kenya. “We support investors from entry to scale through financing and advisory services.”
He added that KCB’s partnership with Invest Kenya strengthens investment facilitation. Consequently, investors gain access to banking solutions, market insight, and reliable financial support as they establish or expand operations in Kenya.
