Peter Salasya. Photo/Courtesy
Mumias East MP Peter Salasya has called for a shift in Kenya’s economic focus, urging the government to invest in manufacturing as a pathway to sustainable development.
Speaking on X, Salasya argued that making Kenya an industrial hub could generate millions of jobs and significantly improve the country’s economic standing.
“This country can only do better by focusing on manufacturing and making Kenya an industrial hub by creating millions of job opportunities. This is what will make Kenya Singapore,” Salasya stated.
He contrasted this with the construction sector, warning that over-reliance on building projects, without broader industrial development, risks leaving Kenyans poorer.
Salasya’s comments come amid ongoing debates over Kenya’s development strategy, where construction projects often dominate public spending.
He emphasized that while infrastructure is important, it should not overshadow efforts to strengthen local industries that can produce goods for both domestic consumption and export markets.
Economic analysts have previously noted that industrialization is critical for job creation, innovation, and wealth generation, pointing to examples such as Singapore and South Korea.
Salasya’s call reflects growing concern over unemployment and the need for policies that support long-term economic transformation rather than short-term construction-driven growth.