The Kenya Association of Manufacturers (KAM) has launched a report that seeks to identify cross-cutting constraints to growth, possible solutions, and sector-specific interventions to unlock the manufacturing sector’s growth potential.

The report, which features 14 of the key manufacturing sub-sectors that constitute the industry, provides a critical submission in the development of policy and strategy for the revival of the manufacturing sector under the Big Four Agenda.

Speaking during the launch, KAM Chairman Mr Sachen Gudka highlighted that the report is designed to assist Government in its quest to revamp the manufacturing sector. Adding that, the report whose information was sort from KAM members, shall form a baseline for reference in the industry.

“The low and declining shares in manufacturing, industrial and exporting sectors in GDP constitute a major challenge to economic growth, as stated in the Medium-Term Plan 3 Concept Note. Our engagements in the development of the Sector Deep Dive Report revealed that there is a very high possibility of value chain integration, if some sector specific proposals are considered.

Value addition promotes the growth of backward and forward linkages, and in the process creates the much-needed productive jobs for the youth, and equally, increases the purchasing power of citizens,” said Mr Gudka.

Also at the launch, KAM Ag. CEO and Head of Membership Development, Mr Tobias Alando reiterate the pivotal role of industry in stimulating economic growth and wealth generation in the world. He further stated that the declaration of manufacturing as a top priority investment area for the country to drive economic growth has seen manufacturers and the government engage more towards this goal.

“KAM remains a key partner to the National Government as it sets out to promote the growth and competitiveness of industry. It is also important that we continue to promote exports. Export is key for job creation and the growth of any country’s economy. In order to push our exports, Kenya needs to undertake coordinated action to promote exports and to secure market access for our locally produced goods and services,” concluded Mr Alando.

Through a direct, industry-led research process, this report aggregates the expert opinions inherent in KAM’s member base and places it within the context of wider studies on manufacturing in Kenya to provide a critical submission in the development of policy and strategy for the revival of the manufacturing sector under the Big 4 Agenda.

The manufacturing sub sectors discussed in the report include: Food & Beverage, Agricultural and Fresh Produce, Paper and Board, Timber and Furniture, Building, Mining and Construction, Textiles and Apparels, Leather and Footware, Chemical and Allied, Pharmaceuticals and Medical Equipment, Energy, Electricals and Electronics, Metal & Allied, Plastics and Rubber, Automotive and SMEs.

The Manufacturing in Kenya Under the ‘Big 4 Agenda’: A Sector Deep-dive Report is published by the Kenya Association of Manufacturers and Kenya Business Guide.