The Kenya National Trading Corporation (KNTC) is on course to implement its five years transformational plan which is aligned to the Big 4 Agenda by upgrading its existing warehouse infrastructure and provision of collateral and warehousing receipting services.
During the launch of the KNTC Strategic plan on Thursday, Ministry of Industry, Trade and Cooperatives Cabinet Secretary (CS), Peter Munya confirmed that the law for warehouse standards implementation was passed in parliament and standards set for technology delivery.
Munya urged KNTC to continue supporting small traders and to identify the best road map to the fulfillment of their strategic plan.
“Some 70 percent of housing in Kenya use local products, the small traders involved in this business needs your support. Your agents in the cement industry should be drawn in since it is a big project,” Munya advised KNTC.
The CS further explained that there is need of providing cold storage for perishable vegetables to reduce wastage, improve lives thus supporting the farming population.
“The warehouse is for small commodity traders and farmers who cannot afford their own storage facilities but also the KNTC should allow large scale farmers to use these warehouses,” Munya added.
The CS advised the KNTC to borrow funds from the government and allow price discovery for their consumers.
The KNTC Chairman, Peter Kaberia said their objective is to position KNTC as the main supplier of strategic bulk commodities in the country and to enhance storage and distribution of surplus produce by farmers.
“Our role in the Big 4 Agenda is to facilitate the construction of health facilities and affordable houses by availing affordable building materials,” Kaberia said.
Kaberia said that they are participating in the National Development Agenda by promoting and enabling wholesale and retail trade through development of supply and value chains.
“In our strategic plan we are going to offer integrated online services in an efficient and effective way and also enhance corporate visibility and image,” the chairman added.
He said that KNTC has successfully negotiated for longer credit terms with suppliers which enabled us to do more business.
By Joy Nzula/Pauline Okeng`a
