Key Investment Sectors & News (2025-2026)

Infrastructure & Utilities:
Water Supply: The county is investing Sh316 million in early 2026 to rehabilitate and expand water networks, targeting over 100,000 households in Nakuru City and surrounding areas like Rhonda, Kaptembwa, and Manyani.
Roads & Transportation: Ongoing projects include the expansion of the Rironi-Nakuru-Mau Summit highway. The NSSF has defended its investment in this toll road project, which is designed to boost connectivity.
Lanet Airport: The construction of the Lanet Airport is ongoing, aiming to facilitate the direct export of agricultural produce.

Real Estate & Property Market:
Surging Land Values: Nakuru has experienced a 20% growth in land value in less than two years (up to July 2025), driven by its city status.
Hotspots: High demand for land is reported in Kiamunyi, Milimani, Section 58, and Naka.
Diaspora & Affordable Housing: There is high investment interest from the Kenyan diaspora, particularly for gated communities. The cost of construction is reported to be 10-20% lower than in Nairobi.

Energy & Industrialization:
Geothermal Power: The Geothermal Development Company (GDC) has set aside 4,000 acres for an industrial park at Menengai, leveraging 105 megawatts of steam capacity to attract 'green' energy investors.
Naivasha Special Economic Zone (SEZ): The 1,000-acre SEZ near Maai Mahiu is hosting new investors, with six firms injecting Sh24 billion into the project.

Agriculture:
Agro-processing: The county is reviving pyrethrum, avocado, and macadamia farming, creating opportunities for value-addition, according to 2025 reports.
International Partnership: Israel is partnering with the county to support agricultural projects and reduce child malnutrition.

Investment Environment & Considerations

Supportive Policies: The county government is implementing the "Invest Aftercare" program to support existing businesses and streamline licensing.
Support for SMEs: Governor Susan Kihika has launched the Wezesha Fund (Sh100 million) to provide affordable credit to MSMEs and cooperatives.
Risks: The rapid appreciation of land has led to increased cases of land fraud, with the Ethics and Anti-Corruption Commission (EACC) recovering land worth Sh345 million in 2023.

Key Investment Areas (2025/2026)

Naivasha: Due to the SEZ and geothermal energy, Naivasha is a hub for industrial and hospitality investments.
Nakuru City Suburbs: Kiamunyi, Pipeline, and Lanet are top areas for residential development.

Disclaimer: Real estate and business investments carry risks. It is recommended to conduct thorough due diligence, including official searches at the Ministry of Lands, especially in high-growth areas of Nakuru. Verify projects through visitnakuru.com and Nakuru County Government.