Kenya is intensifying its efforts to implement the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) to boost business opportunities and solidify its role as a leading regional hub for trade, industry, and innovation. At the Kenya IATF2025 Business Roadshow, the government reaffirmed its commitment to leveraging AfCFTA as a catalyst for economic transformation. Hon. Lee Kinyanjui, Cabinet Secretary for Investments, Trade and Industry, emphasised the importance of intra-African trade and the continent’s ability to generate solutions internally. The event drew over 200 participants, including business leaders, creatives, automotive industry experts, policymakers, investors, and representatives from Afreximbank and the African Union Commission. The discussions focused on advancing regional and continental value chains to support Africa’s industrialisation and enhance its global competitiveness. Strengthening regional integration was identified as essential for increasing industrial output, promoting value addition, attracting investments, and generating employment.
Kenya’s approach aligns with Africa’s vision of sustainable and inclusive economic growth. By capitalising on its skilled workforce, favourable location, and robust financial systems, Kenya is positioning itself as a strategic entry point for trade and innovation within Africa. The successful implementation of AfCFTA is set to increase industrial growth, enhance cross-border trade, and help African nations optimise their shared resources. For the green economy, these efforts are crucial, as enhanced intra-African trade and regional value chains can promote more sustainable and resilient economic models, support job creation in green sectors, and foster innovation geared toward sustainability and competitiveness.
