The Kenyan Government recently approved setting up of a big textile factory by Mas Holdings Singapore, a Sri Lankan apparel and textile manufacturer, in the export processing zone (EPZ) in what is being projected as a big boost for President Uhuru Kenyatta’s employment generation plans. The unit will create jobs for 3,100 once operational in Machakos County. With an investment of Sh1.5 billion, Mass Holdings Singapore Pte EPZ Ltd will leave behind Hela Clothing, which employs 1,500 workers, as the largest apparel and textile manufacturer in the country, according to a Kenyan newspaper report. The unit in the Athi River textile hub is expected to start operations in June. Mas Holdings will export products to the United States, the United Kingdom and the Netherlands. Mas Holdings has a presence in 16 countries. It has received financing of Sh1.1 billion, including Sh900 million in foreign loans, Sh181 million in paid-up capital from shareholders, and a similar amount of money in authorised capital. The President aims to create over 500,000 cotton jobs and 100,000 apparel jobs.
