According to a report by *The Star* on October 9, Kenya is actively promoting digital integration, value-added enhancement, and innovation-driven trade to boost competitiveness in the Common Market for Eastern and Southern Africa (COMESA) region and drive inclusive growth. This initiative aims to capitalize on opportunities presented by regional trade blocs and the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA). Additionally, following the expiration of the African Growth and Opportunity Act (AGOA) on September 30, Kenya is actively pursuing a trade agreement with the United States. The Kenya Revenue Authority and the East African Community are piloting electronic certificates of origin to facilitate regional trade, reduce paperwork, and shorten processing times. This system has been adopted by Swaziland, Malawi, and Zambia, and will be implemented in Zimbabwe starting August 1, 2025, after which paper certificates will be completely phased out. This will reduce processing times by up to 80% and lower costs by at least 50%, making trade transactions smoother, more efficient, and cost-effective. During the official opening of the 18th COMESA Business Forum in Nairobi, Vice President Kiture Kindiki urged regional leaders and the private sector to accelerate the digitalization of trade. Currently, Africa is striving to increase the intra-African trade volume, which stands at only 14%.
