Mombasa:Prominent businessman and politician Suleiman Shahbal has announced his intention to transform Mombasa into a prime investment destination if he is elected governor in the upcoming August 10, 2027 General Election. Shahbal has outlined plans to streamline bureaucratic processes and enhance public-private partnerships to create a more favorable business environment.
According to Kenya News Agency, Shahbal has promised to protect investments and foster an attractive atmosphere for business that will drive wealth and job creation for Mombasa’s youth. He is also a member of the East African Legislative Assembly and has a background in investment banking and entrepreneurship.
Shahbal recently announced a Sh12 billion agreement between his Gulf Group of companies and DP World to develop a Special Economic Zone (SEZ) in Mombasa, which is expected to create approximately 20,000 jobs. The SEZ is envisioned to integrate infrastructure, logistics, and investment to stimulate business growth.
The 2027 gubernatorial race in Mombasa is shaping up to be highly competitive, with five contenders including the incumbent governor Abdulswamad Nassir, UDA Secretary-General Hassan Omar, Nyali MP Mohamed Ali, and former Kisauni MP Ali Mbogo. Each candidate is promoting a vision for economic and inclusive growth for the county.
Shahbal has emphasized investment opportunities in sectors such as maritime infrastructure, port logistics, tourism, and the blue economy. He believes that Mombasa’s strategic location as a regional commercial hub can be leveraged through collaboration between the business community and political leadership to unlock its economic potential.
KNCCI Mombasa Chapter Chairman Abud Jamal highlighted the importance of collaboration in advancing Mombasa’s economic development, reinforcing the commitment to strategic partnerships that drive investment and sustainable growth.
