Richard Ngatia highlights ways Kenya can improve economy

By Robert Mutasi

The Kenya National Chamber of Commerce and Industry (KNCCI) has shared some of the things the government need to do so as to improve the economy.

KNCCI President Richard Ngatia says should the government fully implement the said things, they would stimulate the country’s Gross Domestic Product (GDP) growth.

Speaking during an interview with Spice FM on Monday, Ngatia noted that for Kenya to attract investors, it has to protect the manufacturing industry and ensure the factories produce products that suit the global level which will later attract local and foreign investors.

"This way then we are able to attract not only foreign investors but to attract locals within those zones where they are getting incentives by the same government," said the KNCCI boss. 

He has also expressed the need for the government to put in place measures that will ensure its products are competitive with the neighbouring countries by preventing balance and controlling the tax.

According to Ngatia, this will encourage many investors to take up the economic zones

He further said, focus on value addition should be part of the government’s top agenda as it will help secure and improve the agricultural sector.

"When you look at China, it is big in the cottage industries and they are able to support small farmers. Here in Kenya, I think that is one model we should use to support the local farmers," noted the  KNCCI President.

However, Ngatia has said that Kenya needs a lot of support in terms of skill transfer to fully implement the value addition of farm products.

Improving infrastructure such as greenhouses by partnering with other countries which will be easy to transport local products to the airport, and exit points and assisted in terms of marketing is another area he wants the country to focus on.