By Eddah Waithaka
The Kenya Export Promotion and Branding Agency (KEPROBA), in collaboration with the International Trade Centre (ITC) and the Chartered Institute of Exports and International Trade (IOE&IT), celebrated the graduation of the inaugural cohort of the Exporters Academy.
The ceremony, held at the Weston Hotel in Nairobi, marked the culmination of a transformative initiative aimed at equipping Kenyan professionals with the skills and knowledge to excel in international trade.
The Exporters Academy, established in 2022, represents a strategic partnership between KEPROBA, ITC, and IOE&IT to address the growing need for specialized trade education in Kenya.
The program offers a prestigious Diploma in International Trade, accredited by the UK-based IOE&IT, and is designed to empower small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) and trade professionals to navigate global markets effectively.
The graduation ceremony was attended by key stakeholders, including the KEPROBA Board of Directors, CEOs and Managing Directors of various government agencies and trade support institutions, and representatives from ITC.
The event highlighted the program’s success in building a skilled workforce capable of driving Kenya’s export growth and enhancing the country’s competitiveness in international trade.
A Defining Moment for Kenya’s Trade Sector
In her keynote address, KEPROBA CEO Ms. Floice Mukabana emphasized the significance of the Exporters Academy in strengthening Kenya’s trade capacity.
“Today, we celebrate not only the achievements of our graduates but also the power of collaboration in advancing Kenya’s international trade ambitions,” she said. “This diploma program is a testament to our commitment to equipping professionals with the knowledge and skills needed to thrive in global markets.”
Ms. Mukabana also acknowledged the critical role played by ITC and IOE&IT in making the initiative a success. “The support of our partners has been instrumental in ensuring that Kenyan professionals have access to world-class training in international trade,” she added.
The Diploma in International Trade covers essential areas such as the business environment, international trade finance, marketing, and physical distribution. By equipping graduates with these skills, the program aligns with Kenya’s National Export Development Strategy and Vision 2030, which aim to position the country as a leading trade hub in Africa.
Read More On : https://africawatchnews.co.ke/kindiki-asserts-ruto-administration-is-ready-for-tough-policy-decisions-to-revive-economy/
Empowering the Next Generation of Trade Professionals
Dr. Grace Muriithi, Chair of the KEPROBA Strategy Committee, underscored the importance of continuous learning in the ever-evolving global trade landscape.
“This diploma is not just a certification; it is a powerful tool that positions our graduates as key players in shaping Kenya’s trade future,” she said.
Dr. Muriithi urged the graduates to leverage their newfound expertise to drive Kenya’s export growth. “You now hold in your hands a tool for transformation. Use this knowledge to enhance trade facilitation, policy implementation, and international trade promotion strategies,” she emphasized.
The graduation ceremony also celebrated the resilience and dedication of the 16 KEPROBA staff members who were among the graduates. Their achievement reflects the agency’s commitment to capacity building and its role as a catalyst for Kenya’s export promotion efforts.
A Collaborative Effort for a Brighter Future
The success of the Exporters Academy underscores the importance of partnerships in achieving sustainable development goals. The collaboration between KEPROBA, ITC, and IOE&IT has not only empowered Kenyan professionals but also set a precedent for other African nations to follow.
As Kenya continues to position itself as a trade powerhouse in Africa, initiatives like the Exporters Academy will play a pivotal role in ensuring that the country’s businesses and SMEs can compete effectively on the global stage.
The graduation ceremony concluded with a call to action for all stakeholders to continue supporting capacity-building initiatives in international trade. “This is just the beginning,” said Ms. Mukabana. “Together, we can build a brighter future for Kenya’s trade sector and unlock new opportunities for economic growth.”
Read More Stories At: https://africawatchnews.co.ke/
