Kenya has signed a memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the Kingdom of Netherlands to develop a cool-logistics corridor aimed at creating 3 million jobs for Kenyans.
Transport Cabinet Secretary (CS) Kipchumba Murkomen who signed the MoU stated that a well strategized and functional logistics system would enhance profit in horticulture production.
He signed the MoU in Nairobi on 26 March 2024 with Duth ambassador in Kenya Maarten Brouwer.
According to the CS, a well-functioning sea freight logistics system for perishables could double or even triple Kenya’s horticultural exports thence creating job opportunities.
“A well-functioning sea freight logistics system for perishables could double or even triple Kenya’s horticultural exports, and that could create up to 3 million jobs in the horticultural and agro-logistics industries,” Murkomen Stated.
“The MoU I signed with the Dutch Ambassador in Kenya, Maarten Brouwer, will facilitate private investment in cool-logistics infrastructure to support the transportation of fresh produce by sea.”
CS Murkomen noted that the project involves aspects of logistics including port facilities, transportation networks, and regulatory frameworks.
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He further revealed that the cool-logistics corridor aims to set new standards for transporting fresh produce thus, benefiting bilateral trade and aiding the development of Kenya’s agricultural sector.
Kenya and Netherlands Bilateral Relations
Kenya enjoys deep and cordial relations with the Netherlands that straddle the trade and transport sectors as well as development cooperation.
CS Murkomen also highlighted that almost half of Kenya’s horticultural produce got to Netherlands adding that the collaboration on the cool-logistics corridor will further deepen relations between the two nations.
“Nearly half of Kenya’s flower exports go to the Netherlands, with avocado exports also increasing substantially,” Murkomen said.
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Besides, the logistics corridor is expected to run from Mombasa to Malaba.
It will also entrench Kenya’s leadership in fighting climate change as sea freight is far more efficient in terms of the carbon footprint (95 percent lower emissions than air freight) noted the CS.
Furthermore, Murkomen noted that Sea transport is cheaper, adding that developing a sea freight logistics system for perishables will enhance Kenya’s competitiveness.
“Ongoing developments around the Port of Mombasa, such as the Dongo Kundu Special Economic Zone, will provide a good environment for private sector investment,” he added.
