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KEPSA
7th Floor, South Tower, Two Rivers, Limuru Rd, Nairobi.
info@kepsa.or.ke
KEPSA participated in the launch of the Public Procurement Study to Promote Market Access for Locally Produced Goods in Kenya, held on Wednesday, October 9th, 2024, at the Villa Rosa Kempinski in Nairobi. The event, organized by the Kenya Association of Manufacturers (KAM), showcased a study developed in collaboration with GIZ. This study examined the current public procurement legal framework and systems, offering recommendations aimed at improving market access for locally manufactured goods. By promoting local procurement, the initiative aims to boost demand in the manufacturing sector, contributing to economic growth, job creation, and reducing reliance on imports, thereby conserving foreign exchange.
During the event, Tobias Alando, Ag. CEO of KAM emphasized the study's role as a platform for stakeholders to engage in addressing key public procurement issues. He noted that KAM is actively advocating for the government to settle pending bills amounting to Ksh 650 billion and aims to grow the local market to create jobs and increase the GDP from 7.6% to at least 20%.
Prof. Erastus Gatebe, Industrialisation Secretary at the State Department for Industry, highlighted the manufacturing sector’s significant contribution to the GDP, noting that it provides 18% of tax revenue, with key sectors including leather, footwear, textiles, and apparel. He also spoke of government reforms to address challenges, citing the Local Content Policy and the Public Procurement and Asset Disposal Regulations, 2020, as examples. Additionally, he pointed to efforts to expand public procurement opportunities and update the Master Roll.
KAM Board Director Mr. Ashit Shah reaffirmed that the "Buy Kenya, Build Kenya" initiative is a critical driver of enhanced procurement practices. Supported by strong compliance with procurement thresholds, regulatory reforms, and improved information systems, the initiative ensures transparency, efficiency, and meaningful contributions to the local economy. By embracing "Buy Kenya, Build Kenya" in procurement strategies, the country can foster sustainable growth, build national capacity, and strengthen its competitive position.
Click here to access the Public Procurement Study, 2024.