The president of the Kenya National Chamber of Commerce and Industry (KNCCI), Dr Eric Rutto, has emphasised Kenya’s strategic opportunity to leverage its youthful population and strong trade ties with the EU.
Through a press release delivered at the EU-Kenya Business Forum themed “Digitalising Trade”, he advocated for digital trade to become a core driver of business.
This is in alignment with President William Ruto’s ambition to position Kenya as Africa’s “Silicon Savannah,” where digital infrastructure is as important as physical infrastructure like roads and ports.
“With over 70% of Kenya’s population under the age of 35 and the EU already standing as our second-largest export destination, this moment is more than symbolic—it is strategic, “he said.
He reaffirmed KNCCI’s commitment to bridge policy and enterprise, encouraging Kenyan SMEs to be bold in business and forge international alliances.
Call to Action
Dr. Rutto also called on policymakers to simplify regulations by providing inclusive financing and supporting export readiness for youth and women-led businesses.
Bringing to focus the EU’s $17 trillion economy, Dr. Rutto views Kenya as an entrepreneurial hub ready to lead and create a future where business is borderless, digital and driven by dignity and opportunity for all.
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He promised that KNCCI will continue to work together with the Kenyan government and all international partners to turn their words into contracts and a source of livelihood for the Kenyan youth and women.
Together, Dr Rutto envisions Kenya as the heartbeat of African enterprise, should their aim to transform Kenya’s economic landscape through strategic partnerships with the EU succeed.
KNCCI Foundation
The Kenya National Chamber of Commerce and Industry (KNCCI) was founded in 1965. It has been a fundamental principle of Kenya’s private sector, driving economic growth and prosperity through uniting businesses.
KNNCI emerged as a unified front to protect and promote Kenya’s diverse business community’s commercial and industrial interests. KNCCI is poised to transform forum discussions into actionable, fostering contracts and livelihoods that position Kenya as Africa’s entrepreneurial heartbeat.
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Today, KNCCI represents over 10,000 members across more than 100 branches. They span around agribusiness, manufacturing, ICT, financial technology, and more. Their county-based structure ensures grassroots engagement and empowers businesses to access global markets.
KNCCI remains steadfast in its mission: to create a sustainable business environment where Kenyan enterprises thrive, innovate, and lead on the global stage.
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