EXPORT AGENDA MAGAZINE - MADE IN KENYA EDITION

ISSUE 1

Hip hop artiste Eko Dydda vouches for Made in Kenya products You need it, Kenya produces it Made In Kenya Mark Adoptees

INSIDE

www.makeitkenya.go.ke 1

MADE IN KENYA

Vision To transform Kenya into a top global Brand

Mission Brand Kenya, Export Kenyan, Build Kenya

Tagline Inspiring Global Trade The Kenya Export Promotion and Branding Agency (KEPROBA) is a State Corporation established under the State Corporations Act Cap 446 through Legal Notice No.110 of August 9th, 2019 following the merger of the Export Promotion Council and Brand Kenya Board.

Its Core Mandate is to implement export promotion and nation branding Initiatives and policies to promote Kenya’s export of goods and services.

A publication of the Kenya Export Promotion & Branding Agency (KEPROBA) Copyright © 2024

MADE IN KENYA

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Contents THE BOARD OF DIRECTORS Editorial ������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������� 4 Foreword ����������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������� 5 Mark of Identity �����������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������6 - 7 Made In Kenya Adoptees For The Period July 2022 – June 2023’ �����������������������������������������������8 -9 Hip hop artiste Eko Dydda vouches for Made in Kenya products ������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������ 10 KIRDI: Ensuring Kenyan products meet globally accepted standard ���������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������11- 12 Osho Chemicals seeks to create environmentally friendly Made in

Mr. Jaswinder Bedi, EBS, MBS Chairman Mr. Ambrose R.M. Ogango Director - Alt. to PS, The National Treasury Ms. Leah Aywah Baraza Director - Alt. to the Attorney General Mafaka Michael Ngugi Karanja Independent Director Mulki Warsame Mohamed Independent Director Dr. Grace Kinya Muriithi – Kireria Independent Director Floice Mukabana - Ag. Chief Executive Officer

Kenya products ��������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������� 13 -14 You need it, Kenya produces it ����������������������������������������������������������������������� 15 Booch: Kenyan Kombucha ��������������������������������������������������������������������������������16 -17 HACO Industries: Pioneers in Made in Kenya Products ���������� 18 - 19 The detergent maker ������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������20 -21 The family coffee farm ������������������������������������������������������������������������������������� 22- 23 Revital Healthcare sets standard on Made in Kenya medical

THE EDITORIAL TEAM EDITOR-IN-CHIEF: Maureen Mambo

EDITORS: Mariam Maina-Kamau Molly Wambui

DESIGN & LAYOUT: Walter Kelvin Otieno

essentials ������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������� 24 -25 Made In Kenya Mark Adoptees �������������������������������������������������������������������� 26 -31

CONTRIBUTORS: Getrude Mirobi Addriene Mureithi James Kariuki Njambii Josephine

Head Office Tel. +254 20 222 85 34-8; Cell: +254 722 205 875, | +254 734 228 534 Fax: + 254 20 222 85 39 | + 254 20 221 80 13 Email: chiefexe@brand.ke

DISCLAIMER

1st and 16th Floor Anniversary Towers, University Way P.O. Box 40247 00100 GPO Nairobi, Kenya.

Whereas every editorial care has been taken, Kenya Export promotion and Branding Agency accepts no responsibility for errors or omissions in the articles. The views expressed herein are those of the contributors and do not necessarily reflect those of the Agency.

No part of this publication may be reproduced in any form or by any means without the prior permission of the publisher.

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MADE IN KENYA

Editor’s Note The Role of Branding in Promoting the “Made in Kenya” Mark Ms. Maureen Mambo Director, Nation Brand Development Marketing and Communications

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randing is about establishing a unique and compelling identity for products and businesses.

In the context of the “Made in Kenya” mark, branding plays a pivotal role in driving awareness, recognition, and trust in Kenyan products, both locally and internationally.

In a global marketplace crowded with similar products, branding sets Kenyan products apart. A well-crafted brand identity makes products bearing the “Made in Kenya” mark instantly recognizable, giving them a competitive edge. Consumers are more likely to choose products they can identify with, trust, and relate to.

The “Made in Kenya” mark represents a promise of quality, authenticity, and ethical production.

Branding reinforces this promise, building trust among consumers. A strong brand consistently delivering on this promise enhances the reputation and reliability associated with Kenyan products.

Effective branding goes beyond functionality; it evokes emotions and establishes a connection with consumers. By telling the story of Kenyan culture, craftsmanship, and values, the “Made in Kenya” mark can build a sense of national pride and loyalty, fostering a deeper connection between consumers and the products they choose.

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Branding amplifies the message and value of the “Made in Kenya” mark.

MADE IN KENYA

Branding enhances market presence and visibility for Kenyan products. A strong brand enables Kenyan businesses to effectively market their products both locally and internationally. It opens doors to wider distribution, retail, and e-commerce channels, expanding their reach.

Effective branding ensures that Kenyan products present a unified and compelling narrative. The “Made in Kenya” mark, combined with a well-developed brand strategy, communicates not only the product’s origin but also its story, values, and the promise of excellence behind it.

The “Made in Kenya” mark also encourages local consumers and businesses to support their own. When people see the mark on products, it reinforces the importance of buying locally, contributing to the growth of Kenyan industries and the overall economy.

In essence, branding amplifies the message and value of the “Made in Kenya” mark. It transforms it from a label into a symbol of pride, quality, and authenticity.

Kenyan businesses are encouraged to engage the services of Nation Brand Development Marketing and Communications Directorate at Kenya Export Promotion and Branding Agency to unlock the full potential of utilizing the “Made in Kenya” mark.

In this issue, we profile companies that have adopted the Made in Kenya mark and how the initiative has helped them to grow. I challenge you to walk into a store today and purchase a product with the Made in Kenya Mark. It shall be money well spent.

Enjoy your reading and buy Kenya!

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Foreword

Unlocking Growth: The Significance of the “Made in Kenya” Mark of Identity Ms. Floice Mukabana Ag. CEO

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he “Made in Kenya” mark of identity represents a powerful emblem for Kenyan products and services, and its significance cannot be overstated.

At the Kenya Export Promotion and Branding Agency (KEPROBA), we believe that the “Made in Kenya” mark is more than just a label; it’s a testament to the craftsmanship, quality, and authenticity of products originating from our beloved country, Kenya. This mark embodies a promise to consumers worldwide that the product they are choosing carries with it the essence of Kenya - a country known for its rich culture, natural beauty, and dynamic economy.

In an ever-competitive global marketplace, identity matters. The “Made in Kenya” mark serves as a powerful tool to differentiate our products and give them a unique identity. It helps us stand out in a sea of international offerings. When consumers see this mark, they recognize it as a symbol of quality and reliability.

It tells them that the product has been crafted with the excellence that Kenya is known for.

KEPROBA is committed to furthering the reach and impact of the “Made in Kenya” mark. We understand that for it to be truly effective, we need a collective effort from businesses, government, and society as a whole.

We are working tirelessly to ensure that products bearing the “Made in Kenya” mark meet and exceed international quality standards. We provide guidance and support to businesses in this regard, ensuring that they produce products that are not just competitive but exceptional.

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One of our primary roles is to create awareness about the “Made in Kenya” mark of identity. We undertake promotional activities to ensure that the world recognizes the value and significance of products bearing this mark. Increased adoption of this mark contributes to economic growth by boosting exports and creating job opportunities. It also reflects the rich cultural diversity of Kenya, offering a unique selling point to the world.

We offer capacity building training and support to Kenyan businesses to enhance their competitiveness. This includes skills development, market research, and guidance on export procedures, enabling them to confidently carry the “Made in Kenya” mark into international markets. We also encourage research and innovation, helping businesses improve product quality and design.

The “Made in Kenya” mark represents a promise of excellence, a commitment to quality, and an expression of Kenyan identity. It is a symbol that unites us as a nation and propels our businesses to greater heights in the global market.

KEPROBA remains committed to continuous efforts to raise the profile and value of the “Made in Kenya” mark. We are dedicated to supporting Kenyan businesses in their pursuit of international success, and we invite you all to join us in embracing and celebrating the “Made in Kenya” mark. Let us make “Made in Kenya” a mark of pride and quality worldwide.

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The “Made in Kenya” mark serves as a powerful tool to differentiate our products and give them a unique identity.

MADE IN KENYA

Mark of identity

By Getrude Mirobi I gmirobi@brand.ke

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VARIATIONS OF THE MARK

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he Kenya Export Promotion and Branding Agency (KEPROBA) has been a key advocate of the Buy Kenya Build Kenya Initiative, which encourages Kenyans and the public service to consume locally made products. The Agency is a key stakeholder of the Made in Kenya initiative and is driving uptake of the Made in Kenya brand and service mark.

Who can apply for the Made in Kenya mark of identity?

Anyone with a Kenyan product can apply to receive the Made in Kenya mark of identity from KEPROBA. Kenya has immense ability to produce unique and good quality products for consumption both in the local and international markets.

Made in Kenya For Manufacturers

How can one get the Made in Kenya mark of identity?

Applications are made online through the Made in Kenya website http:// madeinkenya.brandkenya.go.ke/

Eligibility Criteria 1.

2.

Location – Companies/businesses must be in Kenya.

Employment – Kenyan employees in the company must be the majority (at least 50%) 3. Compliance with statutory requirements; 4. Tax compliance.

5. Registration Certificates.

6. Should not be insolvent.

7. Should not have been debarred from Public Procurement.

8. Certification – Must bear the KEBS mark and/or other recognized certifications.

9. Product Design -Must be wholly or partially mined or produced in Kenya.

10. Raw Materials -The Country of origin of each significant component must be Kenyan as outlined in the EAC Customs Union (Rules of Origin)

Grown in Kenya For Horticultural products

What are the benefits of acquiring the mark of identity?

Access to government procurement services.

Made in Kenya adoptees will be entitled to preferential procurement for manufactured articles, materials, and supplies partially mined, produced or assembled in Kenya as guided by section 155 of the Public Procurement and Asset Disposal Act 2015. Since government is the largest buyer of goods in Kenya manufacturers will take advantage of this opportunity and secure increased business MADE IN KENYA

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Proudly Kenyan For Services

Access to financing.

Made in Kenya adoptees will identify opportunities to access financing in the form of credit facilities at discounted rates as well as access to grants. This will allow them to access the much-needed financial resources to carry out their operations smoothly. KEPROBA will do this by looking out for opportunities, mapping them out and sharing with adoptees.

Access to promotional services.

Made in Kenya Adoptees will enjoy promotional opportunities in order to improve market penetration and sales, as well as better reach and target communication with their publics. These promotional services include advertising and placement in prime traditional and digital media spaces, branding and package design for products as well as the opportunity to participate in expos and exhibitions especially in the international markets.

Access to training services.

Adoptees will get the latest training on branding, reputation management, sales management, media relations and negotiation skills. This wealth of information will help businesses increase their bargaining power in the market while positioning themselves favorably vis a vis external competition. Adoptees will also have access to sector specific trade information packs and dedicated business counsellors to assist them when required.

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SCAN HERE TO APPLY FOR THE MADE IN KENYA MARK

MADE IN KENYA

MADE IN KENYA ADOPTEES

FOR THE PERIOD JULY 2022 – JUNE 2023 NAME

SECTOR

1

Elos Organic Produce Limited

Environment, Food And Beverage

2

Baobab Coffee Ltd

Food And Beverage

3

Mutsimoto Motor Company Limited

Engineering

4

Habiqo Investments Ltd

Health And Beauty

5

Rubber Products Limited

Building And Construction

6

Karembou Spa

Health And Beauty

7

Nala Fresh Ltd

Food And Beverage

8

Kingfinn Kenya

Transport

9

Omega Apparels Limited

Clothing And Apparel

10

Simply Foods Limited

Food And Beverage

11

London Distillers (K) Limited

Food And Beverage

12

Edibowl Foods Limited

Food And Beverage

13

Plenser Limited

Engineering

14

Kamyn Industries Ltd

Clothing And Apparel

15

Scalestech

Engineering, Engineering

16

Ella Organic

Food And Beverage

17

Style Industries Ltd.

Health And Beauty

18

Heritage Foods

Food And Beverage

19

Menengai Rolling Mills Ltd

Food And Beverage

20

Jumbo Steel Mills Ltd

Building And Construction

21

Tononoka Rolling Mills Limited

Building And Construction

22

Dpl Festive Limited

Food And Beverage

23

Mvita Oils Limited

Food And Beverage

24

Prodigy Healthcare Limited

Health And Beauty

25

Weetabix East Africa Limited

Food And Beverage

26

Sika Kenya Limited

Building And Construction

27

Bidco Africa Limited

Food And Beverage, Health And Beauty

28

Mommies Choice Products

Food And Beverage

29

Ageless Belle Natural Skincare

Health And Beauty

30

Del Monte Kenya Limited

Del Monte Kenya Limited

31

Afrocessories Co, Ltd

Clothing And Apparel

32

Narcol Aluminium Rolling Mills

Engineering, Food And Beverage, Home And Living

33

Caroline’s Cupcakes Limited

Food And Beverage

34

Atlas Plumbers And Builders Kenya Limited

Building And Construction, Engineering

35

Hydro Aluminium Limited

Building And Construction, Energy, Transport

36

Thonge Limited

Clothing And Apparel

37

Coco Vita Limited

Food And Beverage

38

Majestrix Industries Limited

Food And Beverage

39

Vg Foods Limited

Food And Beverage

40

Malindi Industries Ltd

Food And Beverage, Health And Beauty

41

The Baobb Fruit Company Limited

Food And Beverage, Health And Beauty

42

Tabaka Muungano Handcraft Exports And Inports

Building And Construction

43

Mwachaka Group Ltd

Food And Beverage

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44

Mcdave Holdings Limited

Health And Beauty

45

Tasteafrique Company Ltd

Food And Beverage

46

Voellada Ventures

Food And Beverage

47

Trisis Foods

Food And Beverage

48

Kubuni Defines Ltd

Home And Living

49

Ankole Enterprises Limited

Clothing And Apparel

50

Jennifer Odera Gifting Company Ltd

Food And Beverage

51

Kijiji Nuts Limited

Food And Beverage

52

Quinn Peaks Ltd

Home And Living

53

Afrimac Nut Company Limited

Food And Beverage

54

Farmica (Epz) Limited

Food And Beverage

55

Onja Foods

Food And Beverage

56

Ipopafrica

Food And Beverage

57

Nainchu Farms Limited

Food And Beverage, Health And Beauty

58

Kuwezesha Limited

Food And Beverage

59

Nimz Collections

Clothing And Apparel

60

Gallant Corporate Services Ltd

Clothing And Apparel

61

Ken Knit Kenya Ltd

Clothing And Apparel

62

Akili Foods Limited

Food And Beverage

63

Ona Africa Kenya Limited

Clothing And Apparel

64

Lukenya Growers Ltd

Food And Beverage

65

Keddie Botanics

Food And Beverage

66

Crove Unique Limited

Food And Beverage

67

Densha Products

Food And Beverage, Health And Beauty

68

United Eastern Kenya Coffee Marketing Company

Food And Beverage

69

Ohana Family Wear Limited

Clothing And Apparel

70

L’s Food Lab Ltd

Food And Beverage

71

Humble Beginnings Ventures Ltd

Clothing And Apparel

72

Bee-Care Apiaries International Limited

Food And Beverage

73

Super Gibs Ltd

Food And Beverage

74

Mawi Organics Limited

Health And Beauty

75

Ubuntu Life Enterprise

Clothing And Apparel

76

Hebatullah Brothers Limited

Building And Construction

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MADE IN KENYA

“Made in Kenya” remains an emblem that reminds us of the importance of building our country first by supporting the local industries, appreciating our culture, and cultivating pride of who we are and where we come from

Hip hop artiste Eko Dydda vouches for Made in Kenya products By: Addriene Mureithi I amureithi@apn.co.ke

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ast-rising music artiste Eko Dydda has attracted new interest among Kenyans with his latest hit entitled ‘M.I.K, M.I.K, Made in Kenya’ that has generated over 500 comments for its unforgiving onslaught on Kenyans who prefer to buy imported products instead of locally made products.

Eko Dydda celebrates Made in Kenya products saying it economically empowers local entrepreneurs thereby generating more jobs and new products.

The song which was released by Classic Flicks Media has since raked in 53,000 views, asserts that Kenyans must embrace patriotism first when choosing what to buy before looking outward for any product that Kenyans can make for Kenyans in Kenya.

Music does not only serve as a form of entertainment and creative outlet, but it has for long been used to express dissenting opinions, agitate for better policies, praise diligent dealers and in the same tune admonish corrupt government officials.

Dydda’s song that rides on the adage ‘charity begins at home’ says local radio stations fond of long hours to airing Tanzanian Bongo and Jamaican Reggae songs have denied local music the much needed airplay, hurting prospects of local musicians that are left to rely on live shows.

He says journalists need to desist from their current tradition where musicians are only heard of when they die, or ill luck befalls them saying this must end if Kenya is to become a home for its locally made products.

He further adds that Kenyans who have embraced Kitenge, a local fabric instead of buying designer clothes imported from international retail stores have greatly contributed to Kitenge’s global success. As the song winds down, the talented trap musician encourages Kenyans to support Kenyan brands by applauding and recognising great talent,

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hard work and sacrifice that has gone into creating wonderful authentic Kenyan products.

The song closes off by touching on corruption and mentioning one of the biggest scandals in its history, the “Goldenberg’ scandal. He alludes to corruption as one of the great impediments for robust local industries and urges the leaders to curb corruption to allow the ‘Made in Kenya’ industries to thrive.

The artist goes further to encourage Kenyans to water the grass in our country instead of leaving the country for greener pastures. He advises us to build and strengthen our country before we build other countries.

However, some fans have also related to the sentiments raised throughout the song and are appreciating the importance of supporting Made in Kenya products.

The ‘Made in Kenya’ campaign continues to gain momentum, especially after Covid-19 struck with more Kenyans injecting funds into new businesses to produce items earlier imported into the country from overseas. One notable achievement of the campaign is the pride instilled in Kenyans when donning Made in Kenya brands. The campaign has also encouraged talented designers and entrepreneurs to sprout and follow their dreams to become World renowned business moguls through the different Made in Kenya products and services.

Kenyan leaders have also publicly shown support for Made in Kenya products. President Uhuru Kenyatta is known for his bespoke, well-tailored shirts. While we are still far in terms of culture appreciation and confidence in Made in Kenya brands, the citizens have made huge strides in supporting Kenyan made brands right from clothing to leather and canvas shoes and bag and most importantly, the Kenyan Film industry.

Recently, Kenya produced a series ‘Country Queen’ solely produced for America’s online streaming service, Netflix. There is a general appreciation of the originality of the script, the cinematic creativity of the scenes and the great video production.

Eko Dydda’s “Made in Kenya” remains an emblem that reminds us of the importance of building our country first by supporting the local industries, appreciating our culture, and cultivating pride of who we are and where we come from. “Tujipende, Tujijenge, na Tujenge Kenya Pamoja.”

EKO DYDDA Made in Kenya song (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=MqwCw1LeMUE)

KIRDI: Ensuring Kenyan products meet globally accepted standards By: James Kariuki I jkariuki@apn.co.ke The Export Agenda team interview Dr- Ing. Calvin Onyango, the Director General, KIRDI on their role in supporting exporters.

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hen Dr- Ing. Calvin Onyango took over as the head of the Kenya Industrial Research and Development Institute (KIRDI) on June 6, 2022, he vowed to unlock and distribute patented technological innovations mooted by the public institution for public good.

“KIRDI has for years used locally available materials to create new products for domestic, office and industrial use. We are keen on partnering with investors on joint ventures to mass produce these products thereby benefiting Kenya by providing solutions, jobs and opening new investments space,” he says.

KIRDI, said the German-educated scholar, stands to earn up to Kshs. 200 million annually in royalty fees received from companies utilising its technological innovations to create products that solve local challenges.

To fulfil its plans, KIRDI has requested treasury to allocate them Kshs. 1.5 billion to kickstart the commercialisation process which will see KIRDI personnel train would-be employees, set-up factories, train investor-founders on end-to-end factory operations management to guide acquisition of the machinery for the identified projects.

“Kenya has a ready market for various products and our role is to utilise available expertise to handhold investors from ideation to successful launch of projects. Every year we babysit up to 600 companies whose founders are trained here, assisted to prepare products that are later certified by the Kenya Bureau of Standards (KEBS). We then incubate them for some time to facilitate their scaling,” he adds.

KIRDI, which opened its doors in 1979 offers laboratory analysis services for newly mooted products, incubates start-ups, and imparts product-specific skills on entrepreneurs based on their products of choice. Due to its technical expertise, the public institution also assists companies to develop products that meet set standards.

Dr. Onyango says every year they assist 50 start-ups to redevelop their products as per KEBS standards. KIRDI charges a nominal fee as training is based on the required skills set while successful entrepreneurs are also assisted to 11

kick off their projects using KIRDI’s Common Manufacturing Facility (CMF).

“No business engaged in any manufacturing endeavour should struggle in getting the right technologies, right expertise or space to actualise their dream. KIRDI has qualified personnel, facilities and machineries that can be used to make any product,” he says.

The Director General says KIRDI has outstations in Kisumu, Migori, Eldoret, Kisii, Garissa, Bungoma and Malindi that are fully equipped to conduct industrial research on various products using locally available materials.

Kisumu, he says boasts of leather products’ expertise and is well equipped to serve entrepreneurs planning to enter the leather products market while the Kisii facility concentrates on value addition technologies for avocado. Bungoma and Migori have been tasked with developing technologies towards commercial exploitation of soya beans.

MADE IN KENYA

The Techno-centre is 80 percent complete and will rise 18 floors while boasting of an expanded three floor basement parking area. It will have lecture rooms and lecture theatres, a restaurant and accommodation facilities. The fourth basement will be dedicated to nano-technology laboratories while an entire tower is dedicated to research laboratories.

Eldoret and Kilifi station have fully equipped laboratories and workshops for vegetable and fruit processing, value addition technologies while Garissa concentrates on building innovative technologies towards value addition for camel meat and milk.

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Among their successes is the recent development of an industrial plant for camel meat (nyir nyir) processing in Garissa that started off with training of a group of investors on how to mass handle camel meat, process it into dried and roasted products for export. The project saw a nyir nyir specialty plant made for the investors who have since set up their own plant within Garissa township.

“Our main task, as a national technical and industrial research hub is to fast-track launch of locally made products into the local and export markets by ensuring their products meet the globally accepted standards,” he says.

The scholar adds that they have a hub for making industrial equipment to suit any product development needs including planning for installation as well as onsite visit to ensure the new plants are successfully launched.

Dr. Onyango adds that a Kshs. 5 billion research and development centre located in Nairobi’s Industrial Area is nearing completion. It will offer extra space for local and foreign investors to launch operations and a platform to engage local scientists, engineers, and researchers on various projects.

This includes training of machine operators and factory floor managers thereby ensuring operational efficiency and reduced downtimes for the firms’ profitability.

Photo : Proposed KIRDI Techno Centre

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Osho Chemicals seeks to create environmentally friendly Made in Kenya products By: James Kariuki I jkariuki@apn.co.ke

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an-African biotechnology firm, Osho Chemicals is betting on Kenyan researchers to create environmentally friendly Made in Kenya products for higher agricultural productivity at much lower costs.

“We have launched partnerships with three public universities to tap into scientific research that offers green solutions to addressing pest challenges in Kenya and across Africa,” reveals Chief Executive Officer Manoj Shah. “We spent Kshs. 30 million in sponsoring nine masters and PHD students to conduct their agriculture-based research project work. They have since graduated and we have selected one property (research work) that investigated micro-organisms as harmless vectors to controlling proliferation of harmful pests. Our partnership with the researcher and his university will benefit everyone. Kenya will become known globally as a scientific innovation hub for green solutions. We are expanding our sponsorship with more universities to tap into research works in local repositories.”

Oblivious of the strenuous long hours students spend working on their academic projects that include practical field work to affirm authenticity of their academic findings, a lot of these

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properties (research works) remain locked away in well-guarded university repositories of knowledge.

Speaking to the Export Agenda magazine, the CEO said a closer partnership between academia and industry is the quickest way for Kenya to evolve into a modern economy boasting of homegrown products that respond to local needs.

“Universities must become innovative centres that produce solutions for Kenyans. We have an active internship programme that allows university students to come in and work at our facilities early in their careers.

This will see them earn a practical certificate issued by National Industrial Training Authority (NITA),” he said.

Osho chemicals started off as a distribution company in 1993, employing just three employees with Shah as the distribution-salesman. This has since grown to include manufacturing hubs and subsidiaries in Uganda, Tanzania, Malawi, Zambia, Rwanda, Burundi, Ethiopia, South Sudan, and Somalia as well as DRC Congo.

MADE IN KENYA

Kenya needs to invest more in promoting local small and medium enterprises enabling them to produce and manufacture local products for the international market.

Shah says opening commercialisation opportunities for locally developed products could generate higher adoption of the ‘Made in Kenya’ mark increasing more job opportunities and higher revenues for the national exchequer.

He suggests that tighter controls should be put in place to discourage importation of packaged ready to sell chemical products saying bulk importation of products should be encouraged to create secondary companies that will package in smaller packages for retail sales. The ripple effect would be establishment of new partnerships between manufacturerimporters and local companies as well as an emergence of repackaging units for bulk imports.

“As a Kenyan company, we are highly disadvantaged as we must pay for import duty and railway development levy every time, we import our raw materials while this conglomerate chemical companies import finished products with no extra charge since agro-chemical products are tax exempt. By allowing this, we are exporting jobs and locking investments out of the country,” he says.

Looking at the success of vegetable, flowers and fruit subsectors, the CEO says Kenya needs to invest more in promoting local small and medium enterprises enabling them to produce and manufacture local products for the international market.

Shah says regulators need to give preference to Kenya-based manufacturing units and subject processed products to full duty.

“People import fully processed and customer packaged products as raw materials only to sell the same in local shops. We can’t compete against such products that enjoy huge profit margins. We are killing local businesses by allowing such regimes to thrive,” he adds.

The CEO says they have since transformed their units into manufacturing hubs but continue to largely rely on raw materials imported into the country that are subjected to import declaration levy, railway development levy, among other taxes.

He says Kenyan farmers also need to be funded to establish commercial pyrethrum farms to raise production to satiate demand by local chemical companies. Currently, Osho buys pyrethrin from a local extractor who sources dried pyrethrum flowers from pyrethrum farmers.

“Kenya used to be the highest producer of the best pyrethrum with the highest pyrethrin content. It went down but we have invested more via partnerships and public funding. I am also buying coconut husks and macadamia wastes from local factories that I use to make mosquito coils,” he says.

Shah believes increased value addition could see Kenya earn higher returns from export of tea and coffee products adding that this could attract new investments leading to creation of new job opportunities. The CEO says increased industrygovernment partnership is good for the country as it creates a platform for recognition of locally manufactured products.

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You need it,

Kenya produces it

K

nowing that the products you are enjoying are made in your country brings some sense of pride (even a little bit) to everyone. Imagine finding out people in other countries even continents also consume your country’s products - I do not know about you but it makes me a tad bit excited.

Have you been to Carrefour Supermarket’s Made in Kenya aisle? It is impressive.

All products on both sides of that aisle are one hundred percent produced in Kenya.

Kenya has produced a lot of quality products…let’s just say that you need it, Kenya produces it. This Made in Kenya mark of identity on a product makes it legit! Maybe next time when shopping, let that aisle be your first stop as you shop (see what I did there?)

Every day we see advertisements for things like lotion, bread spread, and other products without knowing where the products are manufactured. I will not lie- I was part of the majority that had no idea, but now, whenever I find myself shopping, I usually check for the Made in Kenya mark of identity.

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(besides fruits of course). They are easy to prepare and nutritious too. Their other products are also top quality and highly recommended (they should have me as a brand ambassador…. Hehe).

Made in Kenya products are those that speak for themselves with the brand names of the homeland which is Kenya (grinning emoji) and have most, if not all, their resources from Kenya.

It is not that I do not appreciate products that do not have the Made in Kenya mark, I do, but there is something about companies that embrace the brand. Take for example Nice and Lovely, everyone has at least interacted with one of their products. I have used two of their products and I was left feeling all good and pretty (puts hair behind my ear). Most ladies can attest that their gel is among the best they have used. Stronghold? Check. No white residue? Check. It gives you a sleek and fabulous look.

Have you had Kenchic chicken nuggets? If not, you are missing out. They are the easiest go-to snack for any occasion. Want to munch on something light as you prepare dinner? Nuggets. Do your children need snacks for school? Kenchic nuggets should be your first thought

I would go on and on about all the products that have adopted the Made in Kenya mark of identity, but I would probably bore you to sleep, and we would not want that. There are lots of other products with the brand and I have not had the luxury of trying them all but if the few I have used have left me feeling all proud of our homeland’s capabilities, I cannot help but want to have everything I use to be from here. I would love to think of myself as a patriot and one of the steps is appreciating our country’s produce.

We are also all Made in Kenya (cough), and we are all amazing so think of how quality the products we produce are. As we come to the end of our conversation, I would like to riddle you this, if we do not appreciate our country, who will?

By Njambii Josephine josephinenjoroge59@gmail.com

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MADE IN KENYA

Booch: Kenyan Kombucha into the Kenyan market five years ago and marketed as a healthy alternative to juice, coffee, beer or soda.

By James Kariuki jkariuki@apn.co.ke

Globally, Kombucha is a traditional drink in China and it spread to Russia, then other parts of Eastern Europe and Germany in the early 20th Century.

M

egan Root and her husband moved to Kenya in 2016 where they realised their traditionally popular and 2000-year old Irish non-alcoholic beverage, Kombucha, was not in the market.

In an interview, Megan who co-founded Global Slacker Enterprises that oversees two subsidiaries, Booch and cleaning agents manufacturer, Grounded said Booch is the latest product to be certified and approved for commercial production by the Kenya Bureau of Standards (KEBS).

At first, she brewed it at home for her family and shared with a few visiting friends. Later some friends, requested for take home orders prompting her to marshal resources for setting up a symbiotic culture of bacteria and yeast (Scoby) production line.

“We also received the Made in Kenya brand identity that affirms recognition of our products in the local and foreign markets as certified products. In the market we identify as Kenyan-made products complete with a Kenya Export Promotion and Brand Agency (KEPROBA) logo,” she says.

“While the ‘brewing’ process is purely Irish, the ingredients are 100 percent Kenyan including premium Oolong Tea, fresh fruit, and botanicals,” she says about their fermented drink, Booch, introduced

In order to deepen their Kenyan ‘roots’, they contracted local farmers and companies to supply them with essential raw materials from freshly harvested and processed teas to plastic containers and labels for use in the manufacturing process.

MADE IN KENYA

16

Her subsidiary, Grounded, also started in 2017, makes nontoxic cleaning products and currently employs 50 people at its Kikuyu-based facility making about 30 products from personal care, laundry, surfaces, toilets/bathrooms, dishes, air, pets, and baby care products.

Her biggest breakthrough came when local retail chains, Chandarana, Artcaffe Market, Zucchini, Healthy U, Shamba Cafe, Lang’ata Links, GreenSpoon, Onn the Way Supermarkets, Health Cart, Ecandi, Fava Herb, Express Shop Kilifi, Blue Marmalade in Watamu accepted to sell her products.

“Kenya can support local businesses by advocating for reduced trade restrictions in East Africa. This can better be done by creating a unified Kenya platform enabling small and medium enterprises to participate in cross border trade,” she observes.

We also received the Made in Kenya brand identity that affirms recognition of our products in the local and foreign markets as certified products.

For KEBS, she says there is a need to create a clear process that is used to inspect and certify different products while allowing creation of new standards for new products like Booch.

“Kenyans also need to buy their own products and the government should facilitate SMEs to attend global fairs to promote locally processed products.”

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MADE IN KENYA

HACO Industries: Pioneers in Made in Kenya Products Mary-Ann Musangi, Managing Director, HACO Industries held a one-on-one interview with Export Agenda’s reporter James Kariuki where she expounded on her firm’s continued success on a global scale straight from their Nairobi hub.

By James Kariuki jkariuki@apn.co.ke

We also ended our merger with Bic Societe and established our own line manufacturing base that now oversees manufacture of different product lines among them a vast range of products in the skin, hair and home care categories such as AMARA (which includes lotions, deodorants, glycerin, shower gels and petroleum jelly), MIADI (which includes, shampoos, hair food, treatment, conditioner), ASHANTI-Q (which includes, treatment, conditioner, shampoos, curling butter, finishing serum, hair cream), ACE, SO SOFT, SPARKLE and HACO PLASTICS (rulers & pegs).

HACO Industries exports to 6 countries across the region (Uganda, Rwanda, Burundi, Tanzania, DRC and South Sudan) and is looking to expand further with supporting tax and trade policies and frameworks.

H

ACO Industries is a famous brand globally and especially for its wide range of products that are Made in Kenya. Please tell us more about HACO’s history and its current products?

HACO Industries is a testament of the late Dr. Chris Kirubi’s belief of Kenya’s ability to fend off fierce global competition from same line conglomerates. It started off as a single-line business in 1974 in Kenya’s coastal town of Mombasa focused on the contract manufacturing of Bic pens and thrived for more than 47 years to become a multi-line enterprise.

From our Nairobi hub we contract manufacture for other leading brands such as TCB, Motions, Dax, Jeyes Bloo, just to mention a few. This has enabled our Kenyan employees gain international expertise in the manufacture of a wide range of products.

The face of HACO began to change in the early 2000’s when the company started to move out of contract manufacturing from global brands - to establish a strong local industry. The first local brand from HACO was Miadi which is a range of hair care products from HACO Industries tailored for African hair, and the word Miadi is a Swahili word that translates to ‘The Promise.’ A year later the So Soft fabric softener range was born, and this catapulted the year-onyear growth of new product development in the skin, hair and home care categories.

Mary-Ann Musangi, Managing Director, HACO Industries

Tell us, do Kenyan standards used to certify your products make your products competitive hence ‘standard wise’ acceptable across the world?

Regulations are necessary requirements in any nation. When effectively implemented, they create an enabling environment for competitiveness by enforcing fair business practices, driving equal opportunity and inclusive participation of all in the economy.

I took over as the Managing Director in 2019 when we ended contract manufacturing remaining with one partnership, E.T. Browne Drug Company, Inc that has entrusted HACO Industries with the manufacturing and distribution of their Palmers brand.

MADE IN KENYA

With great opportunities beckoning as Africa opens for trade, Kenya needs to work on having a competitive advantage by adjusting its trade and tax policies to nurture local industry, and provide an enabling environment for businesses to thrive, innovate and grow employment opportunities.

18

For the cosmetic industry specifically, the retention of KEBS as the registration and regulatory body for class 2 cosmetics will go a long way in easing the movement of goods to local and regional markets and reducing the cost of doing business.

What can Kenya do better to champion Made in Kenya Products?

HACO Industries prides itself in being a homegrown manufacturer that makes deliberate efforts to source raw materials from small agri-businesses around the country. We subcontract them to produce material that we then incorporate into our final product.

A great move that can boost industry in Kenya is to invest in institutions such as Kenya Industrial Research and Development Institute (KIRDI) which are dedicated to building the capacity and know-how for cottage and micro industries to grow. SMEs are a critical part of our value chain and a great addition to innovation. Hence, focusing on empowering them will tremendously accelerate our industrialization as a country.

Secondly, some tax measures in the Finance Act 2022 are set to have an impact on the cosmetics and personal care sector. Excise rate was increased on cosmetics and beauty products. Most of these industries procure raw materials from small scale local farmers who will be impacted by such tax policy measures. It is important to note that excise tax targets goods which are seen as luxury goods. However personal care which includes hair care is a necessity for people’s health and hygiene and this has become clear during the Covid-19 crisis. It is therefore important that this tax is reviewed in this light.

With the expected inflation adjustment later in the year and the election period, the cost of doing business will go up in different sectors (including ours) and impact sales and revenue generation. It is important that the Government alleviates duty on personal care products to support the sector’s growth.

Thirdly, Illicit trade is a constant hindrance to the growth and development of local industry. Unfortunately, illicit trade systems are continuously becoming sophisticated with the advancement of technology and corrupt networks. Counterfeits which are a big part of illicit trade are detrimental to our local economy. They create an unlevel playing field through their unfair practices and bring about huge losses especially in terms of the country’s revenue. They also pose a huge threat to the health and safety of consumers. As HACO we have gone to great lengths to work with experts and our customers to develop products that enhance their health and prioritise their well-being. But counterfeiters, since they obscure their operations and escape regulation, are not held to account on the quality of and safety of their products, and thereby have the potential to cause grievous harm to citizens.

Lastly, we need to increase efforts to harmonise county levies, fees and charges in order to reduce the cost of doing business. County governments must also formulate strong strategies to attract investments as this will build a lasting symbiotic relationship with local businesses especially manufacturing companies and aid in dispersion of industry and ultimately development of related sectors such as agriculture and finance.

Lastly, how are you evolving your business to meet sustainability goals?

HACO’s intent is to sustain its operations by empowering our local workforce that will enable the delivery of African brands for African people in Africa and beyond. We have a research and development program, consumer understanding and quality inputs that inform our production. We employ over 400 Kenyans who are facilitated to undertake further training in various fields of their expertise.

Local, rural small-scale farmers and enterprises that are owned by or employ a lot of women supply us with mineral oils. For example, Moringa Oil from Kilifi, Raw Shea Butter from Uganda, Canola Oil from the slopes of Mt. Kenya, Macadamia oil from Central Kenya and Baobab seeds from Makueni. We use of bio-degradable raw materials in our processes, recycle plastic components towards zero waste, wastewater reduction and management, resource and energy efficiency through solar powered manufacturing.

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MADE IN KENYA

The detergent maker

By James Kariuki I jkariuki@apn.co.ke

U

niversity of Nairobi-trained electrical engineer Sheila Ndirangu first ventured into detergent manufacturing for her own household’s use. Within three years, all her neighbours had turned into her clients and the Covid-19 Pandemic created a demand for cleaning products further opening a ready market for her products.

“To affirm confidence among my existing and new clients, I registered my business and patented my trademark.

The products were then subjected to thorough review for human safety and quality controls by the Kenya Bureau of Standards (KEBS),” she recalls her entrepreneurship journey that started in 2017.

Starting off Her home-based business solely relied on a local supplier who advised her on how to make various detergents for her local sales but has the business expanded, Sheila sought professional advice to help her formulate specific formulas for use in her products repetitively.

At first, she used one litre and a half litre container to package and sell the 20 litres detergent she made in her house. At the beginning, her neighbours were her key clients but she has since grown her clientele and sales to about 1,000 litres of detergent products sold daily.

‘‘

“The need to keep surfaces clean at home, at work and for motor vehicles has created a ready market for dishwash, carwash, drainage, sanitiser, hand wash, bleach, and degreasers,” she says.

While business has been good, her plans to scale up suffered major

MADE IN KENYA

setbacks since Kenya lacks a conducive industrial credit schemes that start-ups can borrow from. She relied on own savings and sought financial help from friends to acquire new machinery that was built at a light industry facility in Nairobi’s Kariobangi area. Lyke Year Limited was born under the brand name LYKE USAAFI.

Facilitate start-ups growth Her quest to burst into the market faced new hurdles as she needed to acquire permits and licences from county and the national governments.

“Kenya needs to appreciate local investors by reducing or waiving permit fees and other licences to enable start-ups formalise and launch operations. This could make locally made products cheaper thereby outdoing the competition(imports),” notes Sheila. “I registered my business name and obtained a trademark for my products. Certification from Kenya Bureau of Standards (KEBS) attracted a Kshs.11,600 fee per product and a Kshs. 10,000 business and a fire permit. For faster growth of start-ups, Kenya should create and publicise incentives available to facilitate start-ups growth. In the process, savings made could be spent on powering new innovations, meet operational expenses as well as facilitating product piloting.”

While her sales kept rising, entry into supermarket shelves has been a daunting task due to fierce competition from established detergent makers who offer their goods on credit as opposed to small players who rely on cash sales to power their next production.

“Supporting local start-ups financially and with business training could open up new employment opportunities for Kenyans while generating new value chains for goods and services,” she notes.

Sheila Mwikali CEO Lyke Usaafi

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Do you want to join the Made In Kenya Family?

Made in Kenya mark

“The Covid-19 Pandemic opened a new market for locally made products as the government allowed KEBS to verify all locally made products that were aimed at fighting the dreaded pandemic expeditiously. This certification means my products are in high demand and I expect good sales as all my products now bear the ‘Made in Kenya’ mark,” she reveals.

The ‘Made in Kenya’ brand identity by Kenya Export Promotion and Brand Agency (KEPROBA), has given her products greater visibility locally where corporate companies now appreciate all products on shelves that bear the logo.

“The recognition by KEPROBA has placed our products at par with well-known brands that have for years graced the shelves. We recently placed our bid for supply of all our products with a local university and are hopeful we could strike a breakthrough if we win the bid,” she adds. “Public entities should buy from local companies boost trust ScantoHere to and confidence for locally produced products.”

Apply Sheila acquired her detergent-making skills at the Institute of Entrepreneurship Development and is currently polishing her networking skills via entrepreneurship training and networking at Kenya Private Sector Alliance.

or

She adds that start-ups should also be granted incubation services and incentives that could see fees and licences waived.

The assistance could promote quick turnaround and emergence of new products on local shelves.

To apply is free

Click here to apply

“Kenya needs to train its people on product manufacturing and entrepreneurship. We have a fertile market for various products and that could mean more jobs and less imports,” she adds.

The detergents maker says social media platforms have given her a new alternative to market her wares to more people at an affordable rate than it would have been via the costly mass media broadcasts.

#ItsMadeInKenya

Terms and Conditions apply

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MADE IN KENYA

The family coffee farm

By James Kariuki I jkariuki@apn.co.ke

MADE IN KENYA

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The family coffee farm John Seroney-Chairman, Sumseron Tea

R

unning businesses is a revered way in Kenya to preserve generational wealth and as coffee exporter John Seroney puts it, Kenyans need to embrace joint ventures as a way of strengthening family incomes.

In an interview, John who is the founder-managing director of Sumseron Tea Enterprises Limited says they inherited a coffee and a tea estate formerly owned by their father Mzee Stephen Cheruiyot in 2017 that they agreed to run as a business.

“Subdivision erodes the value of farms passed to us as inheritance as smaller farm units are of no economic value. Families need to coercively inject fresh capital into joint ventures that ensure continuity of enterprises started by their parents,” he adds.

Mzee Cheruiyot, introduced coffee trees on the family farm in 1978 and boasted of 10,000 trees, a mix of old SL 28, Sl 34 and new hybrids Ruiru 11 and Batian. He rose to become the area co-operative society chairman and Coffee Board of Kenya Director Western Region - positions he served for a decade. He endeared local farmers to engage in coffee farming that saw the acreage increase to over 10,000 acres holding upto 12 million trees. Their decision to continue running their father’s pulping station has maintained their partnership with 17 large estate coffee farms and 22 co-operative societies.

Coffee export licence While they traditionally sold their produce through marketing agents, a breakthrough occurred in 2021 when they received a coffee export licence enabling them to directly engage coffee buyers from across the world.

“Selling through agencies meant that our produce was priced per kilogramme but today, we determine payments for deliveries made to us based on the quality of the coffee beans delivered. If a farmer practised good farm husbandry practices, their coffee fetches a premium price compared to poorly reared coffee trees that yield small coffee cherry beans,” he says.

Affirm authenticity To enhance visibility of their green beans and roasted coffee, sold locally and exported to Nigeria, Niger, Ghana, US, UK as well as new trial clients in the Middle East, John says they obtained the ‘Made in Kenya’ mark of identity issued by Kenya Export Promotion and Brand Agency (KEPROBA) to affirm authenticity of their produce.

“The ‘Made in Kenya’ mark of identity amplifies affirmation of the quality of certified products. We need to use local influencers such as world marathon runners Eliud Kichoge to promote this brand identity globally as this will give Kenyan made produce more visibility thus winning a loyal following abroad,” he notes.

Export trade Sumseron processes and sells 1 million kilogrammes of coffee annually that is exported via Mombasa Port while smaller consignments of roasted coffee is sent directly to established five star cafes.

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“Kenya should support small enterprises to market their products abroad since most clients have learnt about us through direct interactions during international coffee fairs and trade shows with little government support or involvement, he says. “Kenya can sponsor SME owners to attend and exhibit their products abroad during annual global trade missions. We can pay for our own accommodation and distribute samples of our products to prospective clients.”

He says prohibitive costs have made it impossible for small coffee exporters ‘to break’ into the big league that is dominated by established global coffee roasters and processors. Kenya can create a rotating seat for coffee or tea emissaries to be sent out to various embassies to promote produce from their respective co-operative societies.

To promote coffee plantation establishment, Sumseron has been supporting co-operative societies sponsoring distribution of seedlings to their members, mostly the youth who are then trained on better farm husbandry practices until fruition.

The monies spent is then recovered during sale of the subsequent produce sales from the said farms.

This has endeared more young people to engage in coffee farming with many homes enjoying higher incomes.

Export trade, he adds also helps create employment for locals whereby farms hire casuals to work on the farms while the firm’s pulping station and warehouse hosts seven permanent employees while upto 100 casual workers are hired during the peak harvesting season.

According to John, smaller and lowly capitalised enterprises dealing in the same produce should come together and form self-help groups that can seek technical and financial support from the county and national government.

“While it feels nice to be a founder, chairman, a CEO, treasurer or committee member of a small outfit, it is costly to run it as one must seek licences and approvals just as a big outfit will. A small outfit hardly raises adequate volumes to allow them qualify for an export licence but a big outfit will be considered,” he ends.

‘‘

Sumseron processes and sells 1 million kilogrammes of coffee annually that is exported via Mombasa Port while smaller consignments of roasted coffee is sent directly to established five star cafes.

MADE IN KENYA

Revital Healthcare sets standard on Made in Kenya medical essentials

By James Kariuki I jkariuki@apn.co.ke

T

he historic Covid-19 pandemic caused global market disruptions of historic proportions leading to acute shortages of key medical essentials across the world.

Unknown to many, Kilifi-based Revital Healthcare delivered 50 million 0.2ml vaccine syringes to United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF) India, a historic first for Kenya and Africa to have their products certified for use in India, a revered global powerhouse in medical equipment manufacturing.

The firm has its syringes (RUP/AD and Conventional), Rapid Covid Antigen Test Kits, Rapid Malaria Test Kits, Oxygen related products (bCPAP), PPE Kits, Surgical Face Masks, Viral Transport Medium Kits, and many more products certified by standards agencies in 21 countries including UNICEF, World Health Organisation (WHO) and the European Medicines Agency’s (EMA) committee responsible for human medicines (CHMP).

“Sadly though, of the 48 items we manufacture and export, Kenya only buys four items from us, the Tanzania health ministry buys 11 items, and we have a contract for 10 other items from the Uganda government. I wish Kenya could stop importing items we make and introduce punitive regulations to deter imports of anything made

by Kenyan companies. That would mean more jobs and higher revenues for the exchequer,” Mr Roneek Vora, Revital Healthcare, Sales and Product Development Director.

Established in 2007 with 60 employees, the firm now employing 500 workers, mostly women, is poised to hire 100 more following injection of new capital by the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation, Asia Africa Investment and Consulting Pte Ltd and Ohara Pharmaceutical Co. Ltd, towards expansion of their facility.

The new wing currently under construction will have new product lines, auto-disable vaccine syringes, as well as expand its product portfolio solely intended to address the shortage of medical devices in Africa and the world.

Mr. Vora says deepening of ‘Buy Kenya Build Kenya’ policy could end the barrage of perpetual complaints on substandard goods imported into the market leading to loss of billions of shillings.

Roneek Vora Revital Health Chief Executive

MADE IN KENYA

“If any local company makes goods that are substandard, it is very easy to make amends or penalise them but for foreign imports, forget it since the items are sold by local traders whose mandate is only to import and sell,” says Mr Vora.

He observed that many Kenyan researchers now chose to work abroad since Kenya failed to recognise their work. This resulted in formulation of new products that are then exported to Kenya to be sold at exorbitant prices.

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Such a move could also open new confidence among local companies, hence new financial muscle to market their products across the world. This means new demand for skilled labourers that must be trained in Kenyan institutions.

“For a set of syringes that we sell for Kshs. 480, but the similar product is imported at Kshs. 1,820.

We take less than a half a day to deliver to Nairobi, but foreign orders take months. Buy local and for items we do not have capacity to buy go regional first before looking further abroad. For instance, there is a company in Uganda now making surgical gloves, why would we import from China when our next-door neighbour has similar products?” he posed.

‘‘

The firm, in partnership with Vayu Global Health (USA) and Dr. Thomas Burke, a Professor at Harvard University are pioneering the development of a respiratory support equipment, Vayu bubble Continuous Positive Airway Pressure (bCPAP) System for use in baby infirmaries.

Buy Kenya Build Kenya’ policy could “Once this is made locally, it will be cheaper and readily available as compared to the costly machines imported from first world countries. Kenya has capacity and we need to conduct a end the national conversation to spell out solutions that spur new investments in manufacturing and barrage of widen the local and regional base for Made in Kenya products,” he says. perpetual Kenya needs to make it mandatory for all local companies to hire interns as this will generate complaints on new learning among training institutions which continue to be blamed for churning out half- substandard baked graduates. goods Revital is currently the only WHO prequalified manufacturer for vaccine syringes in Africa that imported into are contracted by various international programs aimed at assisting low and middle-income the market countries (LMIC’s) for supply of over 300 million units of the 0.5ml Vaccine Syringes this year. leading to loss With the new investment, the company is set to become the only company in Africa manufacturing of billions of Rapid Diagnostic Test (RDTs) kits for Malaria, Covid-19, HIV, Dengue, Pregnancy, and Hepatitis B shillings. that will go on sale globally.

While the firm has been extremely successful in selling its products, Mr Vora feels Kenya needs to embrace local manufacturers more and involve them during foreign missions to market the country’s products.

“Kenya’s tourism, tea, coffee, and vegetables as well as fruits are promoted by various agencies abroad. Why not manufactured products?” he posed.

The firm is also in talks with a local research institute and a local researcher who invented a vaccine for possible partnership towards commercialisation of the vaccine currently under trials.

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MADE IN KENYA

MADE IN KENYA MARK ADOPTEES COMPANY/ ORGANISATION

INDUSTRY

NAME OF PRODUCT/S

Chandaria Industries Limited

Paper & Board

Velvex Toilet Tissue

Rok Industries Limited

Plastics & Rubber

Plastic Bowls

Loiren Foods Limited

Food & Beverage

Samwa

Crown Beverages Limited

Food & Beverage

Dasani/Juices/ Predator

Credible Jewels

Jewelry

N/A

Trueways Enterprises Ltd

Cosmetics

N/A

Roho Hospitality Limited

Food & Beverage

Salsa Macha

Dt Dobie & Company Limited

Automotive

Mercedes Benz/ Vw Polo/Hyundai

Harvest Of Sunshine Limited

Cosmetics

Harvest Of Sunshine

Newline Limited

Timber, Wood & Furniture

Furniture

Space And Style

Building Mining & Construction

Asili Roofing Tiles

Madafu Publications Ltd

Services & Consultancy

Flex Communications Limited

Services & Consultancy

Glyeco Enterprises

Timber, Wood & Furniture

Madafu Newspaper Cruz Speed Limiters/ Recorders/ Transponders Glyeco Lampshades

Twiga Stationers And Printers Limited

Paper & Board

Crown

African Blue Limited

Food & Beverage

African Blue- Poa Tilapia

Thika Cloth Mills Limited

Textiles & Apparel

Textile Fabric

Alive And Kicking Kenya

Leather & Footwear

Balls

Sanabora Design House Limited

Leather & Footwear

Bags

Caliber Foods Limited

Food & Beverage

Kenbake, Aunty Bettys & Delitoz

Betatea Enterprises Ltd

Food & Beverage

Speciality Tea

Kitengela Hot Glass Limited

Glasswear

N/A

Vivo Active Wear

Textiles & Apparel

Women Cloth Wear

Spice World Limited

Food & Beverage

Pearle Atta Mark One

Emrok Tea Factory (Epz)

Food & Beverage

Emrok Tea

MADE IN KENYA

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Rosewood Furniture Limited

Timber, Wood & Furniture

N/A

Jkuat Enterprises

Food & Beverage

Tea Soko

Coninx Industries Ltd

Plastics & Rubber

Zebra Hose Pipes

Apt Commodities Ltd

Food & Beverage

Jambo Tea

Azu’s Leather Limited

Leather & Footwear

Jays Pyrotechnics Limited

Services & Consultancy

Osho Chemical Industries Ltd First Rank Investments Limited

Chemical & Allied

Leather Beaded Sandals Pyrotechnics And Pyrotechnic Articles Easy Gro/ Moskill Aerosol

Leather & Footwear

Ranks Leather

Kenafric Bakery

Food & Beverage

Kings Mill Bread

Rahma Tea

Food & Beverage

Rahma Tea

Pipe Manufacturers Ltd

Metal & Allied

N/A

Green Pencil Njeru Industries Limited

Pencils

Burn Manufacturing Co.

Food & Beverage Energy, Electrical & Electronics

Airos Investments Limited

Cosmetics

Sheth Group Of Companies

Cosmetics

Sheth Naturals

Burton Industries

Chemical & Allied

Detergents

Amor Coco Kenya Epz Limited

Food & Beverage

Amor Coco

Nahal Industries Limited

Chemical & Allied

Nahal Hand Sanitiser

Tlhokomelo Designs

Leather & Footwear

Handbags

Manutratech Industries Limited

Chemical & Allied

Clean Haven

Bedi Investments Limited

Textiles & Apparel

Buy Kenyan Tea

Rosebee Honey

Food & Beverage Pharmaceutical & Medical Equipment Food & Beverage

Rosebee Honey

Food Africa Enterprises Limited

Agriculture/ Fresh Produce

Food Africa

Loreal East Africa

Cosmetics

Nice And Lovely

Revital Healthcare (Epz) Limited

Pharmaceutical & Medical Equipment

Medical Disposables

Lab Technologies Innovations Limited

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Chapa Chai Jiko Koa

Nyati & Promask

ADOPTEES

MADE IN KENYA

Turea Limited(Dr. Matress

Timber, Wood & Furniture

Dr.matress

Zaverchand Punja Ltd

Jeilo Collections

Khangadelic Enterprises

Plastics & Rubber Leather & Footwear/ Textile & Apparel Textiles & Apparel

Khangadelic

The Olbene Collection

Textiles & Apparel

Olbene Collection

Kalees Collections

Jewelry

Kalees Collections

Malaika Gifts & Interiors

Textiles & Apparel

Malakia Gifts & Interiors

Elekea Ltd

Cosmetics

O’bao

Design Three Sixty Five Limited

Textiles & Apparel

Design365

Frederickbittiner Wear Limited

Textiles & Apparel

Frederick Bittiner Wear (Fb Wear)

Debssie Beads Amari (K)Limited

Leather & Footwear

Debssie Beads

Sumseron Tea Enterprises Limited Kenya Women Handicrafts Advisory And Development Centre Mwanzi Gifts & Crafts

Food & Beverage

Shamiri Chai

Leather & Footwear

Tbc

Textiles & Apparel

Mwanzi Gifts

Kapi Ltd

Chemical & Allied

Dudu Spray/ Dudukrin/Flower/ Flower Anti

Rift Valley Leather Ltd

Leather & Footwear

Rift Africa

Pippy Leather Works

Leather & Footwear

Pippy Leather

Sifa Wear & Decor

Textiles & Apparel

Sifa Crochets

Eden Leather Goods Limited.

Leather & Footwear

Eden Leather Goods

Bagman Tents And Leather

Leather & Footwear

Bagman Tents And Leather

Tosheka Textiles Ltd

Textiles & Apparel

Tosheka Textiles Ltd

Spot On Enterprises

Textiles & Apparel

Spot On Apparels

Milly Creations

Textiles & Apparel

Milly Creations

Boguk &Afra International Ltd

Textiles & Apparel

Boguk

Amazing Collections

Textiles & Apparel

Amazing Collections

Appi Colour Creation Limited

Building, Mining & Constuction

Appi Paints

La’aupau Llp

Health & Beauty

La’aupau

Kenchic Limited

Food & Beverage

Kenchic Limited

Jeilo Leather Collection Limited

MADE IN KENYA

28

ADOPTEES

Utake Coffee Limited

Food & Beverage

Utake Coffee Limited

Liz Njoroge Limited

Textiles & Apparel

L N C Limited

Mafleva International Limited

Health & Beauty

Shop Nanjala

Home & Living

Mafleva International Limited Soapstone,Metal Products

Peperuka

Textile & Apparel

Peperuka

Pete Stephenson

Leather & Footwear

Pete Stephenson

Dormans Coffee

Food & Beverage

Dormans Coffee

Vegasnax

Kula Hoops, Tasteez

Mamaz Spices

Food & Beverage Timber, Wood Products & Furniture Pharmaceutical & Medical Equipment, Health & Beauty Food & Beverage

Mamaz Spices

Ecofix Kenya Ltd

Health & Beauty

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Totosci

Home & Living

Solar Mobile Usb Charger

Elpha Kenya

Health & Beauty

Mahogany Organics

Kijo’s Garden

Kijo’s Garden

Koko By Khakasa

Food & Beverage Chemical & Allied/ Health & Beauty Leather & Footwear

Henry’s Beverages

Food & Beverage

Arnys Chilli

Simama Group

Health & Beauty/ Textile & Apparel

Simama Group

Ramm Millers

Food & Beverage

Rami Flour

Microp Farms

Food & Beverage/Fresh Produce

Microp Farm

Polucon Services

Services & Consultancy

Polucon Services

Purple Chai

Food & Beverage

Purple Chai

Ikawa Coffee

Food & Beverage

Ikawa Coffee

Appropriate Design

Premium Hygiene

Grounded

29

Kidz Furniture

Nipnap Diapers

Grounded Africa Koko By Khahasa

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Jebra Agencies

Timber, Wood & Furniture

Jebra Agencies

Watiekele Widow Women Group

Textile & Apparel

Watiekele Widow Women Group

Ruzi Enterprises

Food & Beverage

Taystee Peanut & Taystee Simsim

One Stop Enterprise

Food & Beverage

One Stop Enterprise

Alnoor Feisal & Co Ltd

Food & Beverage

Monty Chai

Kolongei Farmers Self Help Group

Food & Beverage

Mikunde Uji Mix

Wells Of Delight Enterprises

Textile & Apparel

Wells Of Delight Enterprises

Sifa Shoe Makers

Leather And Footwear

Sifa Shoe Makers

Bio Farms Ltd

Mikunde Uji Mix

Bio Farms Ltd

Milestone Commodities

Riverview Drinking Wate

Butty Box Ltd

Food & Beverage Pharmaceutical & Medical Equipment, Health & Beauty Food & Beverage

Kaya Nuts

Food & Beverage

Delight Tea And Food Processors

Food & Beverage

Crafts With Meaning Anyole International Investments

Leather & Textile

Hava Cabs

Services

Lenel Leather

Leather & Textile

Feil Group Of Companies

Heavy Machinery

Cherrys Food Products

Food & Beverage

Arani Luxury Goods

Leather & Textile

East Africa Ventures Company Ltd

Detergents

Azaavi Foods

Food & Beverage

Wazi Wazi

Leather & Textile

Elex Products

Detergents

Blue Ring Products Ltd

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Biogel Handwash And Sanitiser Water Kefir

Commercial Crafts

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30

Lheritier Ltd

Bodycare

Diro Jewellers And Enterprises

Accessories

Pure Purple Ltd

Leather & Textile

Hawaa Growers Ltd

Food & Beverage

Jareke Media And Production Hosue

Accessories

Khetia Drapers Ltd

Food & Beverage

Bespoke And Intimate Ltd

Leather & Textile

Umami Foods Ltd

Food & Beverage

31

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