Close to $150 million (Sh15.3 billion) has been sunk in Tatu City, a mixed development project in Ruiru, Kiambu county targeting education, innovation and homes for Kenyans, US Ambassador Kyle McCarter has said.

He said the investment has catalysed more than $1.1 billion (Sh112.1 billion) in additional investment to the economy.

The US, New Zealand, Norway and Britain are the top foreign direct investors at the 5,000-acre project.

Speaking during a tour of the city, McCarter said the project has attracted international attention as an ideal site in creating a stable and predictable environment for Kenya and international businesses.

“Tatu City is a true exhibition of excellence and what the future of Kenya will be,” he said.

Among the companies that have in addition led to creation of more than 4,000 temporary jobs are Cooper K-Brands, Dormans, Africa Logistics Properties, Copia, Nova Pioneer, Crawford International, and Unity Homes.

Collaboration

So far, more than 50 businesses are in operation or developing at Tatu City.

McCarter said US highly believes in doing business with Kenya adding that its growing economy has opened up the region.

“When Kenya succeeds the rest of the continent succeeds. This is an example of success that will be replicated across the country,” he said.

Jacqueline Maigua, the project’s head of urban management said they have been working in peace with Kiambu County Government thereby facilitating smooth achievement of quality developments.

The county has in the past been in a tussle with the project developers. It had been accused of frustrating the project developments by failing to approve building plans associated with Tatu City.