China-Kenya businesses could propel Kenya's manufacturing sector

As Kenya looks into industrialization to grow its economy, the Chinese business people especially those manufacturing industrial machines in partnership with Kenyan business people, could help propel the country's manufacturing sector into new heights, industry players and government agencies have said.

Under Kenya's Vision 2030, the manufacturing sector has been identified as the key driver for economic growth and development due to its potential to create jobs and wealth as well as its potential to realize the Sustainable Development Goals.

The sector players and government agencies termed the upcoming seventh edition of the Kenya International Industrial Expo, also known as the Kenya Investment and Trade Fair 2024, as a platform for the China-Kenya business people to foster partnerships that will facilitate the country's manufacturing sector.

Gao Wei, the managing director of Afripeak Expo Kenya Ltd, the expo organizer, said the expo is a vital platform for connecting local businesses with international partners, facilitating knowledge exchange, and promoting 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 toward becoming a leading industrial hub on the continent," he said.

Gao said the expo, which brings together industry leaders, policymakers, entrepreneurs, and innovators from around the world, is a testament to a shared commitment to driving the industrialization agenda forward.

"By bringing together stakeholders from diverse industries and regions, the expo facilitates the exchange of ideas, technologies, and best practices essential for driving industrial growth," he said.

He said 192 companies will be exhibiting their products, of which 70 percent will be Chinese companies, 15 percent local companies and the remaining from the neighboring countries.

Cynthia Kamau, the national director and chamber person of the labor migration committee at the Kenya National Chamber of Commerce and Industry, said the expo, taking place from September 12-14, promises to be a milestone in Kenya's industrial and economic journey.

She said the expo presents a unique opportunity for Kenyan businesses to find joint venture partners and expand their market reach.

"As we continue to strengthen our bilateral trade relations, this platform will play a critical role in fostering new partnerships that can drive innovation, enhance productivity, and create jobs in our local economy," Kamau said.

"We believe that the collaboration between Kenyan and international businesses will yield transformative results, not just for our industries but for our broader economic landscape."

Pius Rotich, the general manager of investment promotion and business development of the Kenya Investment Authority, said the industrial expo exemplifies the agency's commitment to creating an enabling environment for investors, encouraging trade and investment and ultimately contributing to Kenya's economic prosperity.

"The expo will provide a unique platform for both government and private sectors from the two countries to cooperate on agriculture, manufacturing, healthcare, digital technology, and construction which are the key sectors of priority for the Kenya government with great socio-economic impact to Kenya," he said.

He said the Kenyan government will offer assistance to potential investors interested in exploring opportunities in the country by giving guidance on regulatory requirements, licensing, and investment procedures, as well as helping investors navigate the investment process more smoothly.

The government will also showcase specific investment projects and initiatives that are seeking funding or partnerships.

This is in addition to facilitating networking sessions and business matchmaking events during the Expo.

"These activities will assist in connecting investors with local businesses and government officials, fostering potential collaborations," Rotich said.

The sectors to be exhibited during the expo will include engineering machinery, building materials, medical supplies, electrical and new energy as well as vehicle, auto parts and agriculture machinery.