KENYA – Trademark Africa (TMA) and Kenya Flower Council have reaffirmed their collaborative commitment towards revolutionising the logistics landscape of Kenya’s horticultural exports from air cargo to maritime shipping.
This vision, which is a core objective within the European Union-Business Environment and Export Enhancement Programme (EU-BEEEP) program, was discussed in depth during the recently hosted second Logistics Working Group meeting in Nairobi.
The discussions build upon the strong foundations laid during their inaugural meeting in Mombasa, with the two partners crafting a comprehensive master plan that would guide the shift.
The stage was set for a constructive discourse bringing on board a total of 31 participants representing public and private sectors, as well as the Netherlands and the European Union.
Conversations revolved around private sector leadership, setting ambitious yet flexible goals, and the paramount importance of technical expertise.
Participants unanimously agreed on the need for a robust skill development and knowledge-sharing ecosystem to facilitate a smooth transition. This exchange of global insights and actionable steps was deemed crucial for success.
TradeMark Africa further emphasized commitment to working closely with Flying Swans, a key partner, in developing the Masterplan and pledged to seek additional expertise as needed.
The meeting concluded with the establishment of a comprehensive timeline for the master plan’s development.
According to the European Union (EU), Kenya is planning to shift 50% of its horticultural exports from air freight to sea freight in the next 10 years.
This move is aimed at increasing the market share of horticultural products and reducing the carbon footprint and trade costs.
The initiative is being led by the Netherlands, supported by Denmark and the EU, and implemented by TMA in collaboration with the Kenyan Government and private sector.
The successful implementation of this plan will enable Kenya to not only increase its share but also shift to exporting half of its horticulture produce from air to sea freight in the next 10 years EU confirmed.
EU head of delegation to Kenya Henriette Geiger, speaking at the port of Mombasa during the official start of export and engagements to map out the transition, said the shift from air to sea freight will allay growing concerns about air transport’s large carbon footprint.
“Our support is directly related to the EU Green Deal which aims, among other things, to make the economy and trade more sustainable and part of the EU global gateway,” said Geiger.
“A more sustainable export of Kenya’s horticulture goods is essential to ensure the growth of the sector in the future and all jobs and livelihoods that depend on it.”
