NAIROBI, Kenya, Nov 11 – UBA Kenya, in collaboration with RealSources Africa, AfCFTA, Brand Kenya, and DHL, has launched the TradeConnect initiative to advance intra-African trade by connecting manufacturers, SMEs, and exporters across the continent.
Led by RealSources Africa, TradeConnect aims to mobilize and transport 1,000 containers of goods from Kenya to various African countries, enhancing logistics, financial inclusion, and reducing trade barriers under the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) framework.
The launch event included the official flag-off of export cargo worth $1.3 million destined for the Democratic Republic of Congo, Zambia, and South Sudan.
The ceremony was officiated by AfCFTA Secretary-General Wamkele Mene and Kenya’s Cabinet Secretary Wycliffe Oparanya.
The shipment underscored the role of SMEs in driving Africa’s economic growth and promoting export-led development under AfCFTA’s framework.
UBA Kenya’s MD/CEO Mary Mulili highlighted UBA’s commitment to SME growth, aligning with its strategic focus on economic development.
UBA’s partnership with AfCFTA includes a $6 billion financing pledge over three years for eligible SMEs across Africa, with $285 million allocated to Kenya.
Mulili emphasized that TradeConnect will provide both financial and non-financial support, including capacity-building for SMEs in Kenya.
AfCFTA Secretary-General Wamkele Mene reaffirmed the AfCFTA Secretariat’s support for the initiative, announcing plans to establish AfCFTA trading companies to create more regional opportunities for local SMEs.
