Investment, Trade and Industry Cabinet Secretary Moses Kuria has officially launched the 3rd Kenya International Investment Conference (KIICO2023) hosted by Kenya Investment Authority.
The conference is expected to bring together a diverse range of stakeholders, including investors, policymakers and business leaders, creating a platform for networking, sharing ideas, and exploring investment opportunities. With the participation of over 55 trade ministers and 100 top businesses from across Africa, the conference presents an excellent opportunity for Kenya to showcase its potential as an investment destination and forge strategic partnerships.
The CS said KIICO2023 presents a significant opportunity for Kenya to showcase its potential as a key player in Africa’s trade landscape and attract investment into the country.
“Kenya aims to play a critical role in boosting intra-African trade and driving economic growth not only in the country but across the continent,” said Kuria.
Speaking during the launch today, the CS commended KenInvest under the Ministry of Investments, Trade, and Industry (MITI) saying it is playing a critical role in organizing the event, highlighting the government’s commitment to promoting a conducive business environment and attracting investment into the country.
“The conference includes a working retreat for 54 Africa Trade Ministers to develop the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) implementation matrix and Road map that will play a key role in opening the 1.3-billion-person market in Africa for Kenya’s Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs) and positioning Kenya as the gateway to Africa,” said the CS.
Among areas of investment opportunities Kenya targets to pitch to investors include Special Economic Zones, Public Private Partnerships, Foreign Direct Investments in Energy, Affordable Housing, Agriculture, Health, Water, Roads, Transport including the LAPSSET Corridor, Financial Services including the Nairobi International Financial Centre and ICT related investments including the Konza City.
The conference whose theme is “Unlocking Africa’s Gateway” will also feature the Africa Private Sector Alliance (APSA) Forum that brings together top 100 businesses in Africa to deliberate on private sector growth and development in the continent.
The Kenya delegation will be represented by President William Ruto, Deputy President Rigathi Gachagwa, Investments, Trade and Industry Cabinet Secretary Moses Kuria, Trade Principal Secretary Alfred K’Ombudo, Investment Promotion Principal Secretary Abubakar Hassan, and KenInvest Chair Sally Mahihu.
Other dignitaries expected during the conference include guest speaker, President Azali Assoumani of the Union of Comoros who also serves as the African Union Heads of States Summit chairman and AfCFTA Secretary General Wamkele Mene.
By Hamdi Mohamud
