Investment, Trade and Industry Cabinet Secretary Lee Kinyanjui has urged Kenyans to support locally manufactured products, saying increased consumption of Kenyan goods could boost businesses, protect jobs and strengthen the country's economy.
Kinyanjui said the government's Buy Kenya, Build Kenya initiative was essential in promoting domestic industries and creating opportunities for entrepreneurs and workers across the country.
The CS made the remarks after touring the Changamka Festival at the Kenyatta International Convention Centre (KICC), where Kenyan manufacturers are showcasing a wide range of locally produced goods.
"Every Kenyan product we buy supports a local business, sustains jobs and creates opportunities for more Kenyans. This is why the Buy Kenya, Build Kenya initiative is important to growing our manufacturing sector and strengthening our economy," Kinyanjui said.
He noted that local manufacturing goes beyond producing goods, explaining that the success of individual businesses has a direct impact on the livelihoods of workers and their families.
"Behind every product is an entrepreneur, workers and families whose livelihoods depend on the success of our industries. We must support them to grow, improve quality and access bigger markets," he added.
Kinyanjui said the Ministry was supporting manufacturers through institutions established to promote research, protect innovations and provide financing to businesses.
He identified the Kenya Industrial Research and Development Institute (KIRDI), the Kenya Industrial Property Institute (KIPI) and the Kenya Development Corporation (KDC) as key institutions supporting the growth of local enterprises.
He called for closer collaboration between these institutions and entrepreneurs to help transform innovative ideas into competitive products and sustainable businesses.
The CS also challenged county governments to play a greater role in supporting local manufacturers, noting that trade is a devolved function under Kenya's governance structure.
He said cooperation between the national and county governments would help promote value addition, expand market access and create opportunities for manufacturers to establish business partnerships.
Kinyanjui further observed that Kenya was strategically positioned to serve as a manufacturing and export hub for East Africa and the wider African market.
He encouraged manufacturers to increase production and focus on quality products that can compete in international markets.
The CS urged Kenyans to visit the Changamka Festival, interact with local manufacturers and purchase products made in the country.
"When we buy Kenyan, we build Kenya," he said.