The Dongo Kundu Special Economic Zones (SEZ) is a flagship infrastructure project spearheaded by Kenya Ports Authority (KPA) in Mombasa and Kwale counties and is aimed at transforming the coastal region of Kenya into a premier industrial and logistics hub. It is being developed on 3000-acre land and will comprise a free port, industrial parks, free trade zones, logistics and warehousing, energy project areas, tourism, and MICE among other developments. Under the project, KPA is also developing a 300-metre multipurpose berth adjacent to the Port of Mombasa that will serve the economic zone.
To ensure inclusive development, KPA alongside other government agencies, implemented a Resettlement Action Plan (RAP) that prioritizes Project Affected Persons (PAPs). By April 2026, the RAP had achieved 99% compensation for 1,828 identified PAPs, disbursing KSh 1.298 billion, (10 million USD). The plan has successfully relocated 566 households out of the 579 that had been identified to have been occupying the land meant for the SEZ. This represented 98% relocation rate demonstrating a steadfast commitment to sustainability and social corporate governance. KPA through the program has disbursed transition allowances for 1,581 households and enrolled 710 individuals for the livelihood restoration programs, ensuring economic stability.
Furthermore, KPA in partnership with the Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) institutions, rolled out training programs for the youth. Under these, youth were trained in various skills like masonry, carpentry, electrical, plumbing among others. A data bank of the skilled youth has been created and maintained to be made available to investors to draw their workforce as per their demand. Overall, 96 percent of the PAPs have completed skills training, creating a pipeline for 1,581 certified individuals for SEZ jobs and fostering sustainable economic growth.
Through equitable compensation and skills training to empower women and vulnerable groups, the program has also entrenched gender equality ensuring these vulnerable groups are not discriminated against. The program has also been conducted in a fair manner through transparent compensation agreements and plot balloting to guarantee fair resource distribution. By securing land tilting and safer housing, the program is helping to build resilient and sustainable communities within the port’s ecosystem.
The Resettlement Action Plan illustrates KPA’s dedication to sustainable port industry growth by balancing national economic priorities with community welfare. By securing regulatory approval and fast-tracking title deeds, the RAP establishes a benchmark for future infrastructure projects. With 98% relocation achieved, Dongo Kundu is poised to catalyse economic transformation while demonstrating that development and community care are mutually reinforcing, solidifying KPA’s role as a leader in inclusive and sustainable development.