In addition, President Kenyatta expressed the need to rationalize the country’s transport, logistics and related export facilitation in order to compete meaningfully in the regional and global markets.
The President commended the Export Promotion Council for collaborating with the International Road Transport Union and the Commonwealth Secretariat in an effort to introduce the use of International Road Transport Carnet, a global best practice in fast-tracking transiting of export goods in Kenya and her neighbours.
President Kenyatta expressed optimism that the technological innovation will expedite transportation of Kenyan exports to the regional markets and enhance smooth cargo transit both regionally and internationally.
The Head of State added that the Government is simplifying the business regime in the country to make it friendlier for improved transit across borders by increasing single border posts with its counterparts in East
Africa.
He said extensive reforms are underway at the Port of Mombasa in order to streamline operations and achieve the highest level of efficiency.
On her part, the East African Affairs, Commerce and Tourism Cabinet Secretary Phyllis Kandie reassured that the Government will continue improving on the policy environment to enable the private sector to maximize returns from the emerging opportunities in the region.
In this regard, Kandie said the Government intends to amend the Export Promotions Bill to accord the Export Promotion Council more legal recognition as the leader in a sustainable export sector.
Speaking during the same occasion, the chairman, Kenya Association of Manufacturers, Polycarp Igathe appreciated Government’s efforts to improve on the business environment in the country.
Others speakers included Export Promotion Council board chairman Hudson Aluvanze, Chief Executive Officer Ruth Mwaniki and Kenya Airways Managing Director Titus Naikuni.
In attendance were 17 county governors led by the Nairobi County Governor Dr Evans Kidero and Cabinet Secretaries among other senior Government and private sector officials.