Kenya has signed deals with Poland seeking to foster artisanal skill development and job creation in the country.
This is through a strategic partnership on technology transfer in Virtual Reality (VR) welding technology from Poland, towards improving vocational training, and by setting an aluminum factory for modern buildings (both residential and commercial) in the country.
The welding technology seeks to help mostly the youths acquire skills they need to succeed in the digital age, according to investment PS Abubakar Hassan.
He was speaking during the forum where he also assured the visiting investors that Kenya is a safe haven for investment.
“This technology uses VR welding simulator solutions that are not only environmentally friendly but also ensure the safety of the learners. This agreement is expected to create jobs for the Kenyan youth and women in the profession,” Abubakar said.
On the other hand, the aluminum factory is set to be built at Tatu City which will be mandated in production of windows, doors, facades, shop windows, winter gardens, terrace covers, skylights, external glazing, facade roller blinds and facade shutters.
The two trade deals were signed during the inaugural high level Polish-Kenya Business Forum held in Nairobi.
Organised by the Kenya Embassy in Poland, in collaboration with the Polish Investment & Trade Agency and the Kenya Investment Authority, it sought to catalyse trade, investment deals and partnerships in efforts to foster shared prosperity for both nations.
More than 400 business and government representatives from both countries participated in the forum.
Commenting on the deals, Kenya Investment Authority chairperson Sally Mahihu said the agreements mark a significant milestone and demonstration of the confidence that Polish investors have in the Kenyan business ecosystem which will play a significant role in narrowing the trade balance between the countries.
The trade relation is currently in favour of Poland.
In 2022, Poland ranked as the 36th largest export market for Kenya and the 40th largest source of imports.
Kenya’s exports to Poland in 2022 were valued at $24.4 million (Sh3.7 billion), while imports from Poland stood at $52.8 million (Sh7.9 billion).
Key exports from Kenya to Poland included tea, tobacco, coffee, vegetables, fish, and cereals.
In contrast, major imports from Poland to Kenya include machinery, nitrogen compounds, paper and paperboard, electrical apparatus and fertilizers.
