Factory Visits to Centrofoods Industries and Weaver Bird Garment Manufacturers

KAM, led by Chief Executive Anthony Mwangi, visited two of our members: Centrofoods Industries Ltd in the Food and Beverage sector and Weaver Bird Garment Manufacturers in the Textile and Apparel sector.

Centrofoods Industries Ltd, known for its flagship brand KEN Sauce, produces a variety of products, including tomato sauce, chilli sauce, fruit jam, vinegar and bottled mineral water. This visit was particularly special as Centrofoods is celebrating its 44th anniversary this month.

From their humble beginnings, grinding and packing salt, Centrofoods Industries has grown into a significant player in the market, reflecting their resilience and innovative spirit. As part of our focus on Agriculture for Industry, with an emphasis on the tomato value chain, we were keen to delve into their production processes, understand what keeps them at the forefront of the FMCG sector, and learn about the challenges they encounter in the course of doing business.

We also visited Weaver Bird Garment Manufacturers, a remarkable success story in the textile industry. Established in 1993 as a modest tailoring shop, Weaver Bird has expanded into a bustling manufacturing hub with 220 employees. They produce a wide range of textiles, from school and staff uniforms to bedcovers and Masai shukas.

The textile sector is brimming with opportunities, and we discussed how KAM’s initiatives are helping manufacturers like Weaver Bird tap into lucrative markets under the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA), EU, and the US. Equipped with state-of-the-art machinery, Weaver Bird ensures high production levels and maintains impeccable quality standards.

Both visits highlighted the dynamic nature of Kenyan industries and the potential for growth and innovation. As we continue to support our members, we are inspired by their achievements and remain committed to fostering an environment where they can thrive and expand further.