- The 254 Report
- Posts
- Seamless Leadership Transition: A New Chapter for Kenya's Ministry of Investment, Trade, and Industry
Seamless Leadership Transition: A New Chapter for Kenya's Ministry of Investment, Trade, and Industry
Gerald Kombo
January 20, 2025
On Monday, 20th January 2025, a significant moment unfolded at the NSSF Building's 17th-floor boardroom. The Cabinet Secretary for the Ministry of Youth Affairs, Creative Economy & Sports, Hon. Salim Mvurya, EGH, officially handed over the Ministry of Investment, Trade & Industry docket to Hon. Lee Kinyanjui, marking the beginning of a new era for the ministry. This transition reflects the government’s commitment to continuity, collaboration, and national progress.
This ceremony was graced by high-ranking officials, including Permanent Secretaries, directors, and CEOs of affiliated agencies. Their presence highlighted the importance of this seamless leadership transition in driving Kenya’s economic growth agenda.
Hon. Salim Mvurya, EGH: A Legacy of Leadership
Hon. Salim Mvurya, EGH, began the ceremony by reflecting on his tenure and the significant milestones achieved during his leadership.
Today, I hand over this docket with great pride in what we have achieved together as a team. It has been an honor to work alongside such a committed and capable group of professionals who have made the vision of this ministry a reality. I am confident that we have laid a solid foundation for the future.
During his tenure, the Rural Industrialization Program emerged as one of the ministry’s flagship initiatives. Initially involving 19 counties, the program has since expanded to include all 47 counties, focusing on establishing county aggregation and industrial parks.
This program represents a new frontier for Kenya’s economic growth. By decentralizing industrial development and working hand in hand with county governments, we are creating opportunities for every Kenyan to benefit from the industrialization agenda. I urge my successor to continue championing this transformative initiative.
He highlighted the Special Economic Zones (SEZs) in strategic locations like Mombasa, Naivasha, and Dongokundu and the development of Export Processing Zones (EPZs), noting their significance for Kenya’s economic transformation.
These zones are a game-changer for our economy. They attract global investors, boost local manufacturing, and create much-needed jobs. I trust that Hon. Lee Kinyanjui will take this work to even greater heights.
Hon. Mvurya also emphasized the importance of trade agreements, such as those with the European Union (EU) and the United Arab Emirates (UAE), which open new markets for Kenyan businesses.
We have created significant opportunities through these agreements. The challenge now is to ensure Kenyan businesses are well-positioned to take advantage of these markets.
Before concluding, he expressed confidence in Hon. Lee Kinyanjui's leadership:
Your Excellency, you are no stranger to leadership, having served as Governor, Member of Parliament, and Assistant Minister. I am certain that under your stewardship, this ministry will achieve even greater milestones. I remain just a phone call away to offer any support you may require.
Hon. Lee Kinyanjui: A Vision for Transformation
Hon. Lee Kinyanjui expressed gratitude for the warm welcome and acknowledged the strong foundation laid by his predecessor.
He emphasized the need for Kenya to adapt to the rapid technological advancements reshaping industries globally.
Industries are evolving at an unprecedented pace. Our role is to ensure that Kenya not only keeps up with these changes but becomes a leader in innovation and industrial transformation.
The incoming Cabinet Secretary also underscored the importance of creating a predictable taxation regime, which provides stability for investors and businesses.
Uncertainty is one of the biggest challenges for businesses. Together with Parliament and Treasury, we will work to establish a stable taxation framework that supports growth and sustainability.
Addressing public narratives, Hon. Kinyanjui urged stakeholders to celebrate Kenya’s economic successes alongside its challenges:
When one company closes, it often dominates the headlines, creating a negative perception. Yet, for every closure, there are many businesses opening and thriving. We must tell the full story to inspire confidence in our economy.
He concluded by emphasizing the ministry’s commitment to transparency and collaboration:
I am a firm believer in teamwork. My doors will always be open to all stakeholders. Together, we will build an inclusive and thriving economy for all Kenyans.
A Shared Vision for Kenya’s Future
This seamless leadership transition exemplifies Kenya’s commitment to continuity, collaboration, and visionary governance. Both Hon. Salim Mvurya, EGH, and Hon. Lee Kinyanjui reiterated their dedication to driving Kenya’s economic transformation through industrialization, trade expansion, and investment promotion.
With bold leadership, innovative policies, and strategic partnerships, the Ministry of Investment, Trade & Industry is poised to lead Kenya into a future of sustainable growth and shared prosperity.
PHOTO OF HON. LEE KINYANJUI SIGNING THE HANDOVER DOCUMENTS