Acting Cabinet secretary of the ministry of investments,trade and industries Salim mvurya officially hands over to Lee Kinjanjui.
Cynthia Masibo
In a significant development, Lee Kinyanjui officially took over the reins as the Cabinet Secretary for Investments, Trade, and Industry, succeeding Salim Mvurya, the current CS for Sports and Youth Affairs, who had been acting in the capacity. The handing-over ceremony, held at the ministry’s headquarters in Nairobi, marked the beginning of a new chapter for the ministry tasked with driving Kenya’s economic transformation.
Speaking during the ceremony, Kinyanjui outlined his vision and priorities for the ministry, emphasizing the need for collaborative efforts to address challenges and bolster the country’s investment and trade potential.
“As a ministry, we will do our utmost to boost investment and manufacturing while collaborating with other ministries to address key challenges, such as the high cost of electricity and an unpredictable taxation regime,” Kinyanjui said.
He acknowledged the rapid evolution of technology and its impact on industries, noting the need for adaptive mechanisms to ensure sustainability. “While it is inevitable that some industries will be overtaken by time and technology, including artificial intelligence, we will institute mechanisms to salvage those industries that are still viable. This will involve strengthening governance, succession management, implementing internal reforms to adapt to emerging market conditions, and resolving conflicts,” he explained.
The incoming CS also highlighted plans to address economic challenges, particularly those affecting the operating environment for businesses. He announced that urgent consultations would be held to tackle issues such as pending bills and tax unpredictability, which continue to burden companies.
“We will engage in urgent consultations to address the economic challenges affecting the operating environment of many companies, including pending bills and an unpredictable taxation regime,” Kinyanjui added.
He further dispelled misconceptions surrounding trade agreements with international partners, emphasizing their potential to benefit businesses of all sizes. According to Kinyanjui, with proper support, small and medium enterprises (SMEs) can also participate in international trade.
“With proper support, even small companies can participate in international trade. This can be achieved by engaging financial institutions to support them and ensuring compliance with quality standards, supported by KEBs and other relevant institutions,” he stated.
Outgoing acting CS Salim Mvurya expressed his gratitude for the opportunity to serve in the capacity and assured Kinyanjui of his support in ensuring a smooth transition. “This ministry holds immense potential for driving the country’s development agenda. I am confident that CS Kinyanjui will take it to greater heights,” Mvurya said.
The ministry, which is critical in promoting investment, enhancing manufacturing, and fostering trade relations, is set to undergo significant changes under Kinyanjui’s leadership. The new CS’s focus on addressing key challenges, implementing reforms, and leveraging international trade agreements is expected to reinvigorate the sector and provide a conducive environment for businesses to thrive.
The ceremony was attended by senior ministry officials, stakeholders, and representatives from the private sector, all of whom pledged their support for Kinyanjui’s agenda. As he settles into the role, expectations remain high for transformative policies that will steer the country toward economic resilience and growth.
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