President William Ruto has declared that the government will prioritize select value chains in order to foster manufacturing growth and generate employment opportunities.

During an Economic Dialogue on Value Chains held at the Serena Hotel in Nairobi on Friday, Ruto highlighted the significant untapped industrial potential of these sectors, which he believes can create thousands of jobs.

“We see leather, pyrethrum, cotton, textiles and apparel, pharmaceutical, edible oils as value chains whose industrialisation will hasten the attainment of our vision for national economic growth and transformation,” Ruto stated during the event.

President Ruto expressed concern over the underutilization of Kenya's leather industry, despite the country having the third-largest livestock population in Africa.

He urged for the development of the leather value chain to bridge the gap between the industry's potential and its current performance.

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“We import shoes worth nine billion every year. Our leather industry has the capacity to deliver 80,000 jobs and 100 billion dollars. This is a gap we must close,” he emphasized.

The Economic Dialogue on Value Chains witnessed the participation of prominent figures, including over 20 governors led by Chairperson Anne Waiguru, Investments, Trade and Industry Cabinet Secretary Moses Kuria, and the private sector represented by KEPSA Chief Executive Officer Carole Kariuki.

Ruto called for collaboration between county governments and the private sector to support the development of these identified value chains.

He stressed the importance of joint efforts to unlock the full potential of these sectors and achieve sustainable economic growth.

The announcement made by Ruto has garnered optimism and enthusiasm from both the public and private sectors.

The strategic focus on specific value chains demonstrates a clear commitment to manufacturing growth and job creation.

By harnessing the potential of these industries, the government aims to create an enabling environment for investment, enhance productivity, and improve the economic well-being of Kenyan citizens.

To ensure the success of this initiative, effective policies, supportive infrastructure, and access to financing will be crucial.

President Ruto encouraged all stakeholders to unite their resources and expertise in order to fully tap into the identified value chains and facilitate their growth.

The declaration by President William Ruto sets a decisive course for Kenya's manufacturing sector.

Through a targeted approach and collaborative partnerships, the country aims to leverage its resources and unlock the full potential of these select value chains.

By doing so, Kenya can create employment opportunities, drive economic growth, and advance towards its vision of national economic transformation.