Construction of Sh 645 million frozen foods factory begins in Naivasha

Over 359 direct and 1,000 indirect jobs will be created once the Crystal Frozen & Chilled Foods SEZ Ltd is completed at the Naivasha Special Economic Zone.

This was revealed during the ground breaking ceremony that saw the local community emphasize the importance of a collaborative approach, involving multiple stakeholders to ensure that the local community benefits from the job opportunities created by the factory.

Cabinet Secretary for the Ministry of Investments, Trade, and Industry, Salim Mvurya, highlights that the company’s investment of over Sh 645 million (USD 5 million) will not only contribute to the growing investments in the area, but also significantly boost the local economy and support local farmers.

The company aims to promote value addition and reduce food loss by freezing potatoes, vegetables, and French beans for export and local markets, with a shelf life of up to 24 months.

"The construction of this facility promotes sustainable development by processing 100 percent locally sourced potatoes and vegetables, with a capacity to handle 13.8 tonnes per year," Mvurya states.

He further notes that 19 investors have applied to operate in the SEZ, with 11 already approved to begin construction within six months of receiving approval. 

The SEZ is expected to generate 100,000 jobs, primarily benefiting unemployed youth through anticipated infrastructure development.

Mungai Kihutu from Crystal Frozen and Chilled Foods Ltd says that the investment will help in addressing the issues of increased post-harvest losses for farmers when the harvest is surplus.

"Farmers in the county and beyond have the potential to produce quality and enough produce which is capable to satisfy the export market which is yet to be fully capitalized on," he says.

Nakuru Deputy Governor Hon. David Kones adds that the Naivasha SEZ will not only transform the lives of residents in Nakuru County but will also have a nationwide impact, with a renewed focus on promoting, marketing, and the potential of the Naivasha SEZ.

The launch of this facility marks the third investor at the Naivasha SEZ, after Jumbo Africa Auto Auction and Electric Vehicles assembly plant.