TradeMark Africa (TMA) has appointed a new country director for Kenya amid a push for sustainable trade expansion.
In a statement dated February 11, TMA revealed that Lillian Mwai Ndegwa would be taking the helm as the Country Director for its Kenya Programme and will lead initiatives that will enhance market access, reduce trade barriers and promote sustainable economic growth with a focus on creating a conducive Business Environment and Export Enhancement.
"TradeMark Africa (TMA) has appointed Ms. Lillian Mwai Ndegwa as the Country Director for its Kenya Programme signalling a renewed push to implement its new multi-million-dollar strategy in support of Kenya’s goal of expanding its exports, leverage Africa Continental Free Trade Area, and attract high-value investments, placing her at the forefront of these efforts," part of the statement read.
While accepting the appointment, Ndegwa stated, "I am honoured to join TMA at a time when the organisation is driving transformative trade facilitation efforts across the region. I look forward to working with our partners to accelerate sustainable trade growth and economic development in Kenya."
Ndegwa, who has accumulated 15 years of experience in international development, will also be instrumental in piloting an initiative funded by the European Union (EU) which will be implemented in partnership with the Kenyan Government.
The programme targets a shift of at least 50 per cent of Kenya’s horticultural exports from air to sea in a bid to secure its export markets and reduce transport costs.
Other mandates Ndegwa will be undertaking will be the implementation of the organisation's 2023 -2030 strategic plan. The plan is set to support the inclusivity of green, and digital trade initiatives.
"Under this strategy, Kenya Country Programme has already forged partnerships with government agencies like Kenya Revenue Authority and Kenya Ports Authorities to automate trade processes for faster clearance of exports; as well as the private sector to facilitate them in increasing the value and quality of export goods," part of the statement read.
"This builds on over a decade of close collaboration between TMA, the Government of Kenya and the private sector, which has contributed to significantly reduced dwell times at Mombasa port, faster passage through Busia and other border posts, and shortened times to process certification."
The new Country Director has a background serving in the same capacity for Swisscontact, where her most notable accomplishments included making vocational education more attractive to the youth and addressing issues of unemployment and the shortage of technical skills in the country.
She also worked at KPMG’s International Development Advisory Services, where she specialised in audit and compliance for restricted funders, as well as SME development.
TMA Chief Executive Officer (CEO), David Beer, acknowledged the new appointment saying, "Lillian’s expertise in market systems development will be invaluable as we collaborate with the private sector and government agencies to enhance Kenya’s participation in regional and international trade across different value chains."
