KAM, IDH partner to drive textile and apparel industry competitiveness

Thursday, 26th January 2023, Nairobi: Kenya Association of Manufacturers (KAM) has partnered with IDH Kenya to drive the competitiveness of the Textile and Apparel Industry in Kenya. 

The partnership shall be driven through the 3-year Sustainability for Competitiveness Project. 

Speaking during the partnership launch, Principal Secretary, State Department of Industry, Dr. Juma Mukhwana appreciated the role of the Textile and Apparel sector in driving the country’s economic growth. 

“The government has prioritized the Textile and Apparels Sector as a key driver of job creation, exports development, forex exchange and industrialization. Addressing the cost of compliance, the technical capacity to conform to compliance requirements and making the compliance regime accessible to all is critical in enabling Kenya increase and diversify its exports to the global markets.” 

He highlighted the need to market locally manufactured goods to enhance market access, saying, “We need to aggressively use our achievements to market our nation as a sustainable and responsible sourcing destination. For instance, we need to market products made in Kenya as having been produced using green energy as 85% of power in our national grid is already green.” 

KAM Chief Executive, Anthony Mwangi observed that with the rise of Environmental, Social and Governance (ESG) framework, organizations are increasingly becoming conscious of their impact in society, and as such are more focused on ensuring this impact remains positive and sustainable. 

“As an Association, we acknowledge that the role of the manufacturing sector in promoting sustainability lies in the adoption of policies, frameworks and practices that result in greater impact and value in the long-term.” 

He called on local manufacturers to adopt global standards, saying, “Adopting globally acceptable standards, practices and policies is crucial in enhancing sustainability in the industry. Additionally, conducive legislative and institutional support by government in providing an enabling environment for unfettered growth in the adoption of sustainable practices is key. In doing so, we shall be able to access both local and international markets.” 

IDH Country Director, Ms Jenny Lofbom noted that KAM and IDH shall leverage on experiences from more developed countries to drive sustainability for competitiveness. “Sustainability is everyone’s responsibility. By working together, we shall build an inclusive and sustainable supply chain in the Textile and Apparel sector, from farm to fashion.” 

The Project shall focus on good governance; job creation; environmental conservation and restoration; inclusivity and sustainability as well as skills development.