Kenya Investment And Trade Fair 2024 Set To Propel Manufacturing Sector To New Heights

• President William Ruto's administration plans to grow the country's manufacturing sector to 20% by 2030
• Sector players continue to gear towards the government's ambition to steer the industry to new heights
• Players and leaders from across the world will converge in Nairobi for the seventh edition of the Kenya Industrial Expo 2024

Manufacturing industry leaders and players across the globe will converge in Nairobi for the 7th edition of the Kenya International Industrial Expo (KIIE).

Also known as the Kenya Investment and Trade Fair 2024, the event is scheduled to take place from September 12 to 14, 2024 at the Sarit Expo Centre in Nairobi.

Why manufacturers will converge Sarit Expo Centre

President William Ruto's administration plans to grow the country's manufacturing sector to 20% by 2030.

Sector players continue to gear towards the government's ambition to steer the industry to new heights.

The participants, including government officials and stakeholders, will explore the latest trends, products, and services driving the region’s industrial growth.

The expo has become a premier platform for showcasing industrial innovation, fostering partnerships, and exploring new opportunities in Kenya and the wider East African region.

In a press statement seen by TUKO.co.ke, Afripeak Expo Kenya Ltd Managing Director Gao Wei noted that the Expo has become a vital platform for connecting local businesses with international partners.

Wei explained that it facilitates knowledge exchange and promotes the adoption of cutting-edge technologies.

"As we look to the future, the expo will play a crucial role in supporting East Africa’s journey towards becoming a leading industrial hub on the continent,” said Wei.

The event is organised by Afripeak Expo Kenya Ltd in partnership with the Kenya Investment Authority and the Kenya National Chamber of Commerce and Industry (KNCCI).

Wei added that over the years, the expo has established itself as a critical platform for fostering international trade and investment in East Africa.

“With the region’s industrial sector undergoing rapid transformation, driven by infrastructure development, urbanisation, and a growing middle class, the expo acts as a catalyst for economic growth and industrialization,” he said.

Driving manufacturing growth through technology

This year’s theme, ‘Driving Growth in Kenya’s Manufacturing Sector through Technology,’ aligns with the government’s agenda of boosting industrialisation for job creation.

President of the Kenya National Chamber of Commerce and Industry (KNCCI), Eric Rutto, announced that 12 members will showcase crafts, industrial products, electronics, machinery, logistics, and financial services, among other sectors.

“For 14 consecutive years, China has held the position of Africa’s largest trading partner, serving as the primary destination for African exports.

"KNCCI has an overseas branch in Hunan province, China, that has facilitated trade between the two countries, amounting to over KSh 300 million in the past ten months, spanning various sectors, including leather and crafts, skincare and avocado oil, coffee, speciality tea, and macadamia kernels," said Rutto.

Rutto added that Kenyan companies are poised to establish their presence in the China (Hunan) Free Trade Zone.

He further highlighted that the chambers have forged meaningful partnerships to drive growth and innovation across sectors.

The KIIE is taking place ahead of the Forum on China-Africa Cooperation (FOCAC), which will commence on September 4th in China.

China-Africa forum

FOCAC is a vital platform for diplomatic and economic engagement between China and Africa.

Kenya Investment Authority Managing Director Florence Benta Were emphasised that the government will assist potential investors interested in exploring opportunities in Kenya.

“The government will provide guidance on regulatory requirements, licensing, and investment procedures, helping investors navigate the investment process more smoothly.

"We will collaborate with chambers of commerce present here to ensure a coordinated effort in promoting trade and investment during the expo,” said Were.

The 2024 edition of the Kenya International Industrial Expo is committed to supporting local businesses and small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs).

Special initiatives will be in place to encourage the participation of Kenyan companies, including discounted exhibition rates and tailored support services.

These initiatives will empower local businesses to showcase their products and services internationally, fostering their growth and integration into the global value chain.

As East Africa continues its journey towards industrialisation, the Kenya International Industrial Expo 2024 stands as a beacon of opportunity and innovation.

The event’s focus on sustainability, technological advancement, and international collaboration will drive the region’s industrial growth and contribute to its long-term economic resilience.

Stakeholders across the industrial sector are encouraged to participate in this landmark event and seize opportunities for growth, innovation, and partnership.

Ruto in China for FOCAC

Ruto visited China for a three-day Forum on China-Africa Cooperation (FOCAC) summit.

The head of state was honoured to co-chair the Road and Belt Initiative session.

Ruto's visit to the Asian country is expected to unlock funding towards major infrastructure projects in the country.

Proofreading by Asher Omondi, current affairs journalist and copy editor at TUKO.co.ke.