Kenya Showcases Trade Vision at Algiers Summit as IATF 2027 Heads to Nigeria
Kenya has launched 24,000 kilometers of fiber optic cable, a 100,000-kilometer rollout to be concluded within less than three years.
The Standard Gauge Railway (SGR) was also showcased as a pillar of regional integration. Upon completion, it will connect Mombasa to Nairobi, Uganda, and beyond into the Democratic Republic of Congo. Photo/KBC digital
By Juliet Jerotich
Kenya reaffirmed its staunch backing of continental integration at the Intra-African Trade Fair (IATF) 2025 in Algiers. Senior officials articulated ambitious agendas for deepening regional trade under the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA).
Deputy President Kithure Kindiki headed the Kenyan delegation along with National Assembly Speaker Moses Wetang’ula. The five-day summit, which had the theme Gateway to New Opportunities, concluded today. Kenya utilized the platform to draw attention to investment in infrastructure, technology, and cross-border trade.
Speaking to the assembly, DP Kindiki mentioned Kenya’s most important regional projects. He pointed out the Lamu Port and LAPSSET Corridor linking Kenya to Ethiopia and South Sudan via new roads, pipes, and internet connections. Projects on how railway development will be expanded in the future remain on the agenda.
The Standard Gauge Railway (SGR) was also showcased as a pillar of regional integration. Upon completion, it will connect Mombasa to Nairobi, Uganda, and beyond into the Democratic Republic of Congo. The network will eventually connect the Indian Ocean with West Africa, creating a historic trade link.
To facilitate border trade, Kenya is building modern one-stop border posts. The posts will serve Tanzania, Ethiopia, South Sudan, and Somalia. The system will allow the agencies to operate in one location, eliminating delays for passengers and goods.
Digital growth was another jewel. Kenya has launched 24,000 kilometers of fiber optic cable, a 100,000-kilometer rollout to be concluded within less than three years. The initiative will stabilize continental e-commerce and financial services.
Kindiki also highlighted Kenya’s trailblazing efforts in mobile money innovation. He urged increased usage of the Pan-African Payment and Settlement System (PAPSS), which will facilitate instant local currency payment anywhere on the continent.
On financing, he demanded new paradigms including Public-Private Partnerships to fund infrastructure and digital projects. He further stated that Africa must manage debt and shrinking fiscal space with creative solutions.
The Kenyan delegation insisted that development must be inclusive. Women and youth, they stated, must have starring roles to play in the African development story.
The Algiers summit also officially awarded Lagos, Nigeria, to host IATF 2027. Previous editions were hosted in Egypt, South Africa, and Algeria. Rotation enhances regional balance, with East and Central Africa the likely 2029 hosts.
Kenya’s proactive participation in Algiers, coupled with its infrastructure drive, positions it as a future host. Having a 1.4 billion market under AfCFTA, Kenya’s connectivity efforts align with IATF’s mission of expanding trade on the continent.
So far, IATF events have achieved over $118 billion in deals, welcoming 70,000 attendees and in excess of 4,500 exhibitors. Kenya also is now poised to announce new trade deals and investment offers, cementing its status as a continental trade hub.
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