The Kenya High Commission, in partnership with the Johannesburg Chamber of Commerce and Industry (JCCI), hosted a Trade and Investment Forum on Thursday under the theme “Trading with Kenya: Opportunities for South African Business.”
The forum brought together business leaders, policymakers and trade support institutions to explore avenues for expanding economic cooperation between Kenya and South Africa.
Showcasing Kenya’s Opportunities
Delivering the keynote address, Kenya’s High Commissioner to South Africa, H.E. Jane Ndurumo, highlighted Kenya’s position as a leading trade and investment destination on the continent. She pointed to ongoing policy reforms, a favourable business environment and diverse investment opportunities across priority sectors.
Participants were introduced to Kenya’s competitive advantages, including its strategic location as an East African gateway and its growing role in regional value chains.
Industry Insights and Engagement
The Kenya Investment Authority provided an overview of the country’s investment landscape, outlining key sectors primed for growth. Kenya Airways emphasised its role in enhancing cargo and passenger connectivity, critical to facilitating trade and regional integration.
Access Bank presented on the financial infrastructure underpinning the Kenya–South Africa trade corridor, while SGS offered insights into product standards, quality assurance and compliance requirements necessary for successful market entry.
Strengthening Bilateral Trade
The forum also created a platform for direct engagement between Kenyan and South African private sector players, fostering partnerships and business linkages.
Stakeholders noted that such initiatives are essential in unlocking trade potential and deepening economic ties, as both countries seek to expand intra-African trade under the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) framework.
