KAM: Manufacturing Must Be at the Centre of Kenya’s new Vision Beyond 2030

The Kenya Association of Manufacturers (KAM) has urged the manufacturing sector to be placed at the forefront of Kenya's proposed Vision 2060 development blueprint. KAM Vice Chairperson Mary-Ann Musangi emphasized that industrialization is crucial for job creation, revenue generation, and sustainable economic growth. Musangi stressed that the proposed long-term plan must be bold and ambitious to drive substantial transformation over the coming decades.

Currently, the manufacturing sector contributes about seven percent to Kenya's GDP, and KAM aims to elevate this to around 20 percent, comparable to leading nations such as Singapore and Vietnam. Achieving this would create over two million direct jobs, indirectly benefitting millions more linked to the sector through supply chains.

Musangi highlighted that manufacturing generates a disproportionate share of government revenue, accounting for approximately 16 percent of Kenya Revenue Authority collections. This sector is also one of the largest employers in the country, being the second-largest employer after the government. By expanding the manufacturing sector, Kenya can create jobs, boost government revenue, and stimulate economic activity.

Musangi called for stronger political commitment to manufacturing, noting that while the necessary infrastructure exists, it requires prioritization from top leadership. She also advocated for supporting established local manufacturers to create a conducive environment for attracting more investment and integrating small-scale businesses into formal value chains.

Expanding manufacturing would yield benefits beyond industrial output, including job creation, higher tax revenues, stronger exports, greater value addition, and increased opportunities for small businesses.