KEPSA, in collaboration with the Sharjah Chamber of Commerce and Industry, is co-hosting the UAE – Kenya Trade and Investment Forum, which kicked off today, 11^th November 2024 in Nairobi. The two-day forum brings together delegates from across multiple industries in Kenya to interact with a delegation of 15 companies from the United Arab Emirates (UAE) to promote trade and investment relations between the two countries.

Hon. Salim Mvurya, Cabinet Secretary for Investments, Trade and Industry graced the opening session. The UAE delegation was led by H.E Abdullah Sultan Al-Owais, Chairman, the Sharjah Chamber of Commerce and Industry while the Kenyan private sector was led by the KEPSA CEO Ms. Carole Kariuki alongside Mr. James Mureu, Chair, KEPSA Economic Diplomacy Sector Board.

In his remarks, Hon. Mvurya noted that Kenya is committed to advancing its Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement with the UAE, which is expected to boost investment and trade between the two countries. He added that the country boasts of well-trained human resources and has mapped out special economic and export processing zones with incentives for investors.

“I also wish to underscore that the private sector plays a critical role in driving economic transformation by accelerating investment, industrialization and economic activities, and unleashing the potential through growing business opportunities. To that effect, the Government of Kenya has formulated business-friendly policies to support the growth of the private sector,” Remarked Hon. Mvurya.

On his part, H.E.  Al Owais highlighted the importance of strengthening economic partnerships with Kenya, focusing on investment opportunities in this region. He expressed confidence that the mission would enhance cooperation between the business communities of Sharjah and Kenya. He also emphasised the Sharjah Chamber's dedication to furthering cultural connections and economic relations between the UAE and Kenya, noting significant growth in non-oil trade between the two countries, which reached over $3.06 billion in 2023—a 26.4% increase from the previous year.

Ms. Kariuki highlighted the advantage Africa has due to its large youth population, which constitutes about 65%. She added that Kenya stands as a gateway to not only East Africa but the entire continent of Africa with a dynamic market with opportunities across various sectors of the economy. She mentioned that Kenyan businesses can learn from the UAE’s vast experience in sectors such as logistics, renewable energy, technology and finance.

“We see this mission as a catalyst for future Gulf-East Africa engagements, benefiting businesses and communities throughout our region by enhancing market access, creating jobs, and fostering a spirit of collaboration,” said Ms. Kariuki.

The forum was attended by Mr. Alfred K’Ombudo, Principal Secretary for Trade; Mr. Tobias Alando, Ag. CEO, Kenya Association of Manufacturers (KAM); Ms. Florence Benta, Ag. Managing Director of Kenya Investment Authority among other business leaders and representatives.

Last night, a welcome dinner was held ahead of the forum. The dinner was jointly hosted by the Sharjah Chamber of Commerce led by H.E Abdullah Sultan Al-Owais and KEPSA led by Mr. James Mureu. It was attended by H.E. Dr. Irungu Kang'ata, Governor of Murang'a County; Mr. Ahmed Farah, CEO, Kenya National Chamber of Commerce and Industry (KNCCI); Ms. Floice Mukabana, CEO, Kenya Export Promotion and Branding Agency (KEPROBA); Dr. Vimal Shah, Chairman, Bidco Africa and KEPSA Trustee, among other business representatives from Kenya and the UAE.

The event offers representatives of organisations a valuable opportunity to enhance their brand visibility, connect with potential business partners and explore new investment opportunities among hundreds of trade and investment professionals through dedicated B2B sessions. The B2B engagements will continue tomorrow.