KNCCI's President Erick Rutto participates in a high-level engagement at State House Nairobi. (Photo/KNCCI).
By Daisy Okiring
Kenya National Chamber of Commerce and Industry (KNCCI) President Dr. Eric Rutto has called on Kenyan businesses and policymakers to intensify engagement with the European Union, presenting the 27-nation bloc as a crucial gateway to global trade and innovation.
Speaking at the EU-Kenya Business Forum held under the theme “Digitalising Trade”, Rutto underscored the potential of Kenya’s youthful population and advancing tech infrastructure to drive stronger economic ties with the EU, which represents a $17 trillion economy.
“With over 70 percent of our population under the age of 35, and the EU already our second-largest export destination, this isn’t just a symbolic moment—it’s a strategic one,” said Rutto in a statement issued after the event.
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Kenya positioned as Africa’s Digital Hub
The KNCCI leader echoed President William Ruto’s vision of making Kenya the “Silicon Savannah” of Africa—a regional tech and innovation hub. He emphasized the need for Kenya to treat digital infrastructure as essential as roads and ports in its trade policy.
Dr. Rutto urged small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs), particularly youth- and women-led businesses, to adopt a bold, borderless approach to trade. He also pressed for regulatory reforms and inclusive financial support to make export markets more accessible to these groups.
According to Rutto, digital trade should be positioned at the center of Kenya’s global commerce strategy, enabling the country to connect its local entrepreneurial spirit with international demand and supply chains.
EU-Kenya trade Agenda Gains Momentum
The remarks come amid a broader push to deepen trade links between Kenya and the European Union. The two partners have already signed a historic Economic Partnership Agreement (EPA), opening duty-free and quota-free access for Kenyan exports to EU markets. The KNCCI sees this as an ideal platform for Kenyan businesses to scale beyond national borders.
Rutto noted that the Chamber is committed to translating these forums and agreements into real-world results—contracts, investments, and job opportunities for Kenyans. He said the KNCCI would continue collaborating with both the government and international stakeholders to ensure that policy commitments are backed by business growth.
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Chamber expands reach, supports enterprise
Founded in 1965, the Kenya National Chamber of Commerce and Industry now represents over 10,000 members across more than 100 regional branches. It plays a pivotal role in supporting agribusiness, manufacturing, ICT, fintech, and other sectors by connecting local entrepreneurs with global trade opportunities.
Through grassroots-level engagement and nationwide presence, the Chamber aims to promote inclusive economic development and drive Kenya’s private sector to compete effectively on the international stage.
Dr. Rutto concluded by saying that if current momentum is maintained, Kenya could become the “heartbeat of African enterprise,” especially as it leverages digital trade to strengthen ties with Europe and beyond.
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