By Eddah Waithaka
Kenya’s private sector and government leaders launched the East Africa Halal Expo and Forum 2026 today, positioning Nairobi as the future gateway to the booming global halal market.
The Kenya Private Sector Alliance (KEPSA) joined the Ministry of Foreign and Diaspora Affairs and the Future Growth Forum to officially inaugurate the event, slated for May 2026.
Organizers say the expo will showcase East Africa’s potential, connect local businesses with international partners, and promote certification standards to tap into the global halal economy, valued at over $7 trillion.
In a statement read by Ambassador Jackline Yonga, Principal Secretary for Foreign Affairs Dr. Korir Sing’oei framed the initiative as a critical economic bridge.
“By embracing halal trade, Kenya offers its businesses access to over 2 billion consumers worldwide. This connects our farmers, manufacturers, and innovators to markets that value quality, authenticity, and ethical standards,” the statement said.
The launch event convened ambassadors from across the Arab world, industry captains, and investment leaders.
Mr. Abdulaziz Billow Ali, CEO of the Future Growth Forum, highlighted the region’s untapped potential.
“Despite East Africa’s rich resources and strategic position, our region has only begun to scratch the surface of this immense opportunity,” he stated.
Mr. James Mureu, Chair of KEPSA’s Economic Diplomacy Sector Board, emphasized the sustainable, long-term value of the halal industry.
He urged all regional stakeholders to commit to lawful (halal) business practices to enable more seamless and efficient trade across East Africa.
The event featured strong diplomatic support, with envoys from Egypt, Iraq, the UAE, Palestine, Tunisia, Saudi Arabia, Algeria, Somalia, Oman, and Pakistan in attendance.
H.E. Hazem Shabat, Dean of the Arab Ambassadors to Kenya, and H.E. Amb. Dr. Khalid Mohammed Al-Kathiri of the League of Arab States led the delegation, signaling robust international interest in Kenya’s role as a halal trade hub.
