KAM Launches Manufacturing Priority Agenda 2019

Kenya Association of Manufacturers on Tuesday launched the Manufacturing Priority Agenda (MPA) 2019 under the theme, “Closing the manufacturing gap through the Big 4 Agenda for shared prosperity”.

The launch of the Manufacturing Priority Agenda marks the first of many events to celebrate KAM’s 60 years of adding value.

The Agenda outlined immediate action plans that are expected to yield tangible results in the short term, which will see Kenya’s manufacturing sector close the current gap of 6.6 percent by 2022, to attain the 15 percent GDP target under the Big 4 Agenda.

According to KAM, the priority areas will be driven under five key pillars which, if strengthened, will realize the manufacturing goals under the Big 4 Agenda. These five key pillars are competitiveness and level playing field, enhanced market access, pro-industry policy and institutional framework, government-driven SME development and securing the future of the manufacturing industry.

Speaking during the launch, Principal Secretary, State Department for Investment and Industry, Ms. Betty Maina noted that industrialization is the driving force for any economy because no country has ever achieved high-income status without having a robust manufacturing sector.

She added that to reach the said targets, the economy requires businesses to expand their investments as a sure way to grow our economy and create employment opportunities.

The Chairman, National Assembly Committee on Trade & Industry, Hon. Kanini Kega noted that “We need to have all arms of Government engaging at all times to ensure a holistic approach to addressing issues. We also encourage business to engage in the public participation processes.”

KAM Vice Chairman, Mr. Mucai Kunyiha noted that for Kenya to realize its industrialization goals, there is a need for deliberate and predictable policy interventions.

“This means that we need to prioritize its productivity by making it profitable for local companies to export again, boosting their capacity to expand within the country and focusing on SME growth and productivity.” Added Mr. Mucai Kunyiha.