The European Union and stakeholders in the trade and investments sector recently organized a public sensitization workshop in Nakuru to discuss the implementation of the EU-Kenya Economic Partnership Agreement. This agreement officially came into force on 1 July 2024.
During the workshop, key partners including the Kenya Association of Manufacturers (KAM), Danish Industry, Nakuru County Government, Kenya Flower Council, the Kenya National Chamber of Commerce and Industry (KNCCI), and regional business representatives came together to explore the mutual benefits of the agreement.
The event marked the beginning of a series of EPA workshops across the country, emphasizing the significant potential for Kenyan farmers and manufacturers to access new EU markets. For instance, the EU annually imports over €1.2 billion worth of fruits, vegetables, and flowers from Kenya.
The Agricultural Sector Network of Kenya (ASNET) highlighted the importance of inclusivity, particularly in creating opportunities for women and youth in agriculture. Mr. Steve Kuria Muiruri, the CEC Trade, Industry, and Tourism of Nakuru County Government, also used the platform to reaffirm the county’s commitment to creating a conducive business environment to support local enterprises in accessing the vast EU market.
With total trade between the EU and Kenya amounting to more than €3.3 billion in 2022, the workshop showcased how the private sector can leverage this agreement to drive growth, sustainable development, and climate action in the South Rift and beyond.
