Kenya has hosted the 32nd General Assembly of the African Organisation for Standardisation (ARSO) in Mombasa, bringing together 400 delegates from 58 countries, including 36 African nations.
Trade Cabinet Secretary Lee Kinyanjui said Kenya stepped in at short notice to host the high-level meeting after Uganda, the initial host, was forced to withdraw following the Ebola outbreak.
Kinyanjui said Kenya’s ability to organise and successfully deliver the international gathering demonstrates growing confidence in the country and highlights the strength of its hospitality sector.
The Assembly, held at Sarova Whitesands in Mombasa, focused on harmonising standards across African countries to facilitate the seamless movement of goods and strengthen intra-African trade.
Kinyanjui noted that intra-African trade currently accounts for only 17 per cent, while African countries conduct up to 70 per cent of their trade with markets outside the continent.
He called for the removal of unnecessary trade barriers and greater access to African markets for products made on the continent.
“Africa must conquer the African market,” Kinyanjui said, emphasising the need to create more opportunities for businesses, jobs and wealth creation.
