Kenya seeks AfCFTA approval for KEBS certification to boost continental trade

This move is expected to expedite export processes and enhance trade efficiency across the continent.

The appeal was made during a high-level meeting between Kenya's Cabinet Secretary for Investments, Trade, and Industry Salim Mvurya, and the AfCFTA Secretary-General Wamkele Mene. 

CS Mvurya highlighted the necessity of the KEBS certification in reducing delays and facilitating smoother transhipment of goods across African borders. 

 “KEBS will make a formal application for accreditation through the ACFTA Secretariat. Once approved, the certification will be accepted across the continent for Kenyan Goods,” Mvurya added.

The KEBS certification procedure, once accredited by the AfCFTA Secretariat, would be recognized across all member states, ensuring that Kenyan exports comply with the required standards swiftly and uniformly. This would not only speed up the export process but also reduce costs associated with extended customs checks and bureaucratic hurdles.

Mvurya also welcomed ongoing discussions between ACFTA and the United Bank of Africa to address the high cost of cross-border trade by launching a USD 7 billion fund to empower small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) in Africa. 

“We are lobbying for the fund to be launched here in Kenya once the talks are finalized, as we have a ready market,” he said.

CS Mvurya called on the ACFTA Council to address challenges impeding the ease of doing business across Africa. 

“There is ongoing discussion to establish a Pan-African Payment and Settlement System (PAPSS) that could resolve the existing hindrances,” Mvurya noted. So far, over 115 commercial banks and 15 central banks have signed onto the system to facilitate trade in local currency.

Wamkele Mene, the Secretary-General of AfCFTA, urged more commercial banks across Africa to adopt the PAPSS to promote the use of local currencies in cross-border trade. “By switching to the Pan-African Payment System, African banks can help eliminate reliance on third-party currencies, which has significantly increased the cost of trade across the continent,” he affirmed

During the meeting, CS Mvurya hailed the African Continental Free Trade Area (ACFTA) secretariat for its efforts in resolving the remaining instruments required for the establishment of the legal and policy framework of the agreement. 

"We are pleased with the progress made by the Secretariat. All key protocols of the agreement have been agreed upon, and now the focus is shifting toward implementation," stated CS Mvurya.

At least 48 countries have already submitted their tariff offers to the ACFTA Secretariat, demonstrating strong support and commitment to the agreement's objectives.