Kenya has been urged by the Kenya Urges Uptake of Locally Made Products at 24th COMESA Summit to “buy Kenyan” as the country is expected to revitalize her manufacturing sector and then spread her wings in global markets.
This was the essence of the message delivered at the 24th Common Market for Eastern and Southern Africa (COMESA) Heads of State and Government Summit being held in Lusaka, a forum that has attracted leaders, policymakers, and businesses from the entire region.
The Government of Kenya has set an impetuous target to double the percentage contribution of the manufacturing sector to the country’s Gross Domestic Product (GDP) from 7.6% in 2024 to 15% by 2027.
The stakeholders are of the opinion that the objective will only be realized if there is an increased uptake of locally manufactured goods in Kenya and the neighboring countries.
Such summits as COMESA, that put together the state heads and the different players of the economic spectrum, are crucial occasions for micro, small, and medium-sized enterprises (MSMEs) to meet and enter the continental and global value chains.
Besides the plenary sessions, the summit has also created a trading space, with more than 300 regional exhibitors showcasing their products, sharing innovations, promoting cross-border trade, and forging strategic partnerships.
Program Proponents says the platform is designed not only to intensify trade within the COMESA region but also to reposition MSMEs as the main gears of economic growth through enhanced competitiveness in both regional and international markets.
