KAM, COG host forum on fostering economic development

Wednesday, 19th April 2023, Nairobi: Kenya Association of Manufacturers has called on county governments to position the counties as ideal investment destinations. 

This was during a forum hosted by Kenya Association of Manufacturers (KAM) and Council of Governors (COG), themed ‘Strategically positioning counties as investment and manufacturing destinations and fostering cooperative development to spur economic growth.’ 

 Speaking during the forum, Machakos County Executive Committee Member (CECM) for Trade, Industrialization and Innovation, Honourable Sharon Mutua appreciated the business community’s role in driving socio-economic roles in the devolved system of Government. 

“County governments acknowledge the role of the private sector in creating a sustainable economy. Our goal is to create a favourable business environment that will foster growth and investments. We have mapped out investment opportunities in various counties, as we look to drive county-based industrialization.” 

 KAM CEO, Anthony Mwangi noted that stability and predictability earns investors’ trust. 

 “Policy instability and unpredictability is one of our biggest challenges as the manufacturing sector. When operating and trading in the counties, industries have to adhere to numerous county fees, levies and charges, as well as licenses. KAM is working to collaborate with the Council of Governors to launch County Industrial Competitive Index (CICI) to track industrial development in counties.” 

 He called for the need to synergize efforts both at the national and county levels of government, saying, “We ought to have collaborative, progressive, and developmental relations between all the actors as a means of raising standards and productivity at the same time for the benefit of the entire economy.“