Ruto Signs Three New Laws to Boost Kenya’s Investment Environment

President William Ruto has signed into law three new pieces of legislation aimed at making Kenya’s business environment more efficient, predictable, and competitive for investors.

The laws, signed at State House in Nairobi, include the Income Tax Bill, the Special Economic Zones (Amendment) Bill, and the Technopolis Bill. The government described the measures as part of a broader effort to streamline regulation and strengthen Kenya’s position as an attractive investment destination.

According to the new laws, the Income Tax Act will rationalise the administration of capital gains tax in a move aimed at aligning Kenya’s tax regime with international best practice and recognised taxation principles.

The Special Economic Zones law expands the scope of special economic zones to include oil and gas zones. It also harmonises tax incentives and introduces a minimum ten-year licence period to match the long timelines associated with major investment projects.

In addition, the law broadens special economic zone coverage to strategic sectors such as agro-processing, manufacturing, mining, advanced technology-driven production, and petroleum operations.

The Technopolis Act establishes a legal framework for the formation and administration of technopolises. These are designed as integrated one-stop centres for government services, global investment, talent, innovation, and research.

The government says the three laws are intended to improve the investment climate by creating a more structured and supportive environment for businesses and long-term projects in Kenya.