Foreign investments in Kenya are significantly impacting the country's labor market, promoting gender inclusion, and driving innovation beyond just capital injection. A 2024 Foreign Investment Survey (FIS) reveals notable growth and shifts in employment patterns.

• Total employment in enterprises with foreign assets and liabilities increased by 3.3% to 224,704 people in 2023, predominantly driven by Kenyan nationals.
• The survey by Kenya National Bureau of Statistics (KNBS), Central Bank of Kenya (CBK), and Kenya Investment Authority (KenInvest) highlighted that 66.4% of foreign firms entered Kenya through greenfield investments.
• The proportion of women employed in foreign-linked enterprises rose from 37.8% in 2023 to 39.1% in 2024, indicating progress in workplace inclusivity, particularly in services and manufacturing sectors.
• Despite these positive contributions, the survey identified the cost of electricity as the single largest barrier, cited by 70% of investors, alongside concerns about financial and immigration services, and business permits.
• Yet, investor sentiment remains cautiously optimistic with nearly 40% of surveyed enterprises planning to reinvest and expand in Kenya over the next three years.