The TradeConnect Africa Initiative has launched and flagged off products from Kenyan Micro Small and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs) to the Democratic Republic of Congo, Zambia and South Sudan.
The launch and the flagging-off ceremony, which marked the inaugural shipment of goods was done under the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) framework.
The shipment demonstrated the vital role the MSMEs play in driving the agenda for export-led economic growth and development.
Over the next 12 months, the TradeConnect Africa Initiative, led by trade with Real Sources Africa, aims to mobilise and transport 1,000 containers of diverse products across Africa, fueling economic growth and strengthening integration within the
The TradeConnect Africa Initiative is a transformative project aimed at boosting intra-African trade by connecting manufacturers, Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs) and exporters across the continent
The initiative led by Real Sources Africa, focuses on Export Aggregation by consolidating goods from multiple SMEs to create larger, competitive export volumes.
The initiative provides access to essential resources, including capital, logistics, and market connections.
It also prioritises innovative solutions to optimize production, improve product quality, and facilitate cross-border trade including leveraging technology, digitizing supply chains, and exploring new market entry strategies to keep African businesses ahead in a dynamic global market.
By addressing trade, finance, and logistical challenges, the initiative fosters the growth and success of African businesses across the continent
The approach enhances economies of scale, streamlines logistics, and ensures consistent product supply to meet international market demands.
During the launch and flag-off held at NFT Autosports, Mombasa Road, Nairobi, Real Sources Africa urged SMEs to take it upon themselves to identify where the market is and how to position their product competitively.
It said the ITC Trade Map is an invaluable tool for Kenyan SMEs, offering insights into potential markets to explore and expand into.
“Use this resource to understand demand trends, identify promising markets, and make informed decisions on your export strategies,” Real Resources Africa said.
“Expand your reach by diversifying into new markets. Ensure your products are well-branded and packaged to meet international standards and appeal to a broader audience”.
The event was grace by CS for Cooperatives and MSMEs Development Wycliffe Oparanya and AfCFT Secretary General Wamkele Mene.
Key partners in the initiative include the Ministry of Cooperatives and MSME Devt’, Ministry of Investments, Trade and Industry, and AfCFTA Secretariat.
Others are the British High Commission, Kenya National Chamber of Commerce, Kenya Association of Manufacturers, MSMEa and Trademark Africa.
DHL, Autoports and KCB Bank are also among the stakeholders.