Kiambu Governor Kimani Wamatangi has announced a new partnership with Yiwu City of Zhejiang Province, China, aimed at strengthening economic, trade, and industrial ties between the two regions.
Speaking after hosting a delegation led by Yiwu’s Vice Mayor, Mr. Shao Chunhong, Governor Wamatangi said the agreement would open up new opportunities for Kiambu farmers, manufacturers, and traders.
The discussions focused on agriculture, with Yiwu traders set to collaborate with local farmers through the County Aggregated Industrial Park.
The deal will promote value addition and the export of products such as avocados while supporting the establishment of industrial bases within the gazetted Economic Processing Zone at the upcoming Thika Industrial Smart City.
“These initiatives will not only lower export costs for Yiwu manufacturers but also create employment opportunities for our people in Kiambu,” said Wamatangi.
A memorandum of understanding (MoU) was signed to formalize the cooperation.
Yiwu City is globally recognized as the world’s largest wholesale market, with 2.1 million product items. It has been endorsed by both the United Nations and the World Bank for its massive small commodity production and boasts a GDP of 35 billion US dollars.
Governor Wamatangi said the partnership would position Kiambu as a key trade and investment hub in the region while empowering farmers and boosting industrial growth.