The Buy Kenya – Build Kenya Strategy (June 2017) is a national policy framework designed to promote the consumption of locally produced goods and services, enhance competitiveness, and strengthen Kenya’s industrial base. Developed by the Ministry of Industry, Trade, and Cooperatives, the strategy responds to the country’s growing trade deficit caused by heavy import dependence and limited local consumption. It calls for both public and private sectors to reserve at least 40% of procurement budgets for Kenyan products and services and aims to create jobs, spur industrial growth, and foster economic patriotism.
The strategy outlines key pillars including: establishing a supportive legal and regulatory framework, providing an enabling business environment through subsidies, tax incentives, and quality infrastructure, enhancing market access via branding and packaging improvements, and promoting advocacy and awareness campaigns to shift consumer attitudes toward local products. Implementation is guided by a National Steering Committee, with performance monitoring across ministries and agencies. Ultimately, the initiative seeks to transform Kenya into a self-reliant economy that prioritizes domestic production, value addition, and sustainable industrialization in line with Vision 2030
Source: Ministry of Investments, Trade and Industry