Institute for Development Studies, University of Nairobi

The purpose of this interim research report is to develop models of the relationship between industrial location and public policy in Kenya, to test the validity of these models using empirical data, and to use those parts of the models which appear to be valid to help improve policy outcomes. The approach will be contextual, in that government interventions will be considered in relation to the wider context of overall industrial, spatial and population policies, and in relation to the political economy of which these policies are a part. Data have been collected in interviews with government administrators, and with officials from 17 textile, knitwear and, clothing manufacturing firms. Data analysis will be based on procedures taken from the disciplines of political science and regional economics.