Opinion Pieces
Browse through educative and informative articles published by the KAM team
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Fri, 23 May 2025
Kenya’s VAT refund dilemma, a costly manufacturers pain point
To keep Kenya’s economy competitive, VAT refund processes must be reformed. The Kenya Association of Manufacturers (KAM) recommends a multi-faceted approach that ensures predictability, efficiency, and transparency. First, establishing a time-bound, legally backed refund mechanism is critical. Just as businesses must remit taxes within strict deadlines, VAT refunds should also be processed within a set timeframe—failure to which penalties in the form of interest should apply. -
Tue, 20 May 2025
For Kenya’s prosperity, counties must be industry-centric
Twelve years since Kenya ushered in the devolved system of government, the fruits have been bittersweet for businesses. Today, we need to pause and take stock from 2013, Where are we now? Have we fulfilled that promise? What does success truly look like and how do we translate the dream of devolution into a lived reality for our citizens, our industries and Kenya’s prosperity? -
Wed, 23 Apr 2025
The clock is ticking on AGOA expiry. Why Kenya must secure its future
The story of AGOA is one of opportunity. As of today, AGOA-driven exports generate approximately $600 million annually. In Kenya, the apparel industry alone employs over 58,000 people directly, with a one-to-one ratio of indirect jobs, and supports an estimated five dependents per worker. -
Mon, 10 Mar 2025
Can manufacturing usher Kenya’s economic prosperity in 2025?
Kenya’s manufacturing sector is navigating the new year with caution, as revealed in the latest Manufacturing Sector Barometer Report (Q4, 2024) by the Kenya Association of Manufacturers (KAM). The report paints a picture of subdued confidence among industry players, with many expressing concerns over excessive taxation, high operational costs, and regulatory unpredictability. -
Wed, 26 Feb 2025
Illicit trade, a detrimental vice harming Kenya’s prosperity
The local manufacturing sector has over the years raised concerns about the increase in illicit goods in Kenya. In addition to posing health risks to consumers, illicit trade undermines industries’ investment efforts and stunts innovation. Further, the country’s ability to grow its economy and improve the standard and quality of life for its citizens is compromised. The most recent reports from manufacturers paint a gloomy picture of the situation on the ground. For instance, the citizens and cement manufacturers raised an alarm over the adulteration of cement products. -
Fri, 17 Jan 2025
Leveraging AI for Kenya’s Industrial Development
As the world edges deeper into the digital age, few innovations hold as much transformative potential as Artificial Intelligence (AI). A recent report from McKinsey suggests that AI could add $13 trillion to global economic output by 2030. With its burgeoning tech landscape and forward-thinking industrial policies, Kenya stands at the cusp of an industrial revolution where AI could redefine its manufacturing and industrial sectors. -
Mon, 16 Dec 2024
Diversifying exports portfolio for Kenya’s prosperity
Trade has been a cornerstone of human civilization, beginning with the ancient barter system and evolving into today’s complex international agreements. In the earliest days, barter trade, a system where people directly exchanged goods without a standard currency, was essential for survival, yet it had limitations. Disparities in value, seasonal shortages, and the challenge of matching each other's needs fairly, often led to conflicts and stalled exchanges. Such misalignments in wants and resources made transactions cumbersome and hindered economic growth. -
Mon, 16 Sep 2024
From livestock to luxury: Kenya’s Path to becoming a global leather powerhouse
Kenya's leather industry possesses immense potential to drive economic growth and position the country as a global leader in leather production and fashion. With the right policies and sufficient support, Kenya can unlock this potential, creating jobs, increasing wealth, and making a significant impact on the international stage.
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