Kenya gets Sh2bn Covid-19 war, green trade shot in the arm

Kenya has received Sh2 billion from the Danish government to support the country’s green trade effort and the war on Covid-19 at border points.

The funding, which will be channelled through TradeMark East Africa (TMEA), will boost Kenya’s efforts to transition to green trade and create sustainable jobs under the Denmark and Kenya Strategic Framework for 2021 to 2025.

TMEA will partner with government institutions and the private sector in adopting sustainable and efficient transport and infrastructure for reduced barriers to trade, improve trading standards and sanitary and phytosanitary issues to enhance business competitiveness in Kenya.

“The new funding will build up on results that have been achieved in previous programmes funded by Denmark,” said Denmark ambassador to Kenya Ole Thonke.

Of the total funds, Sh1.6 billion will go towards achieving the green trade goal while the remainder of the money will support the efforts in combating Covid-19. He said Denmark’s support to TMEA’s Safe Trade, which is being implemented in other10 countries, will enable continuous efforts to provide essential services at the key entry and exit points while keeping front line border workers safe.

“Safe Trade has ensured collaboration to combat Covid-19 through provision of platform for response by public and private partners, partnering with the EAC in leading the regional dialogues and policy interventions and provision of protective equipment,” he added.

East African Community PS Kevit Desai said the initiative by the Denmark would boost trade between Kenya and its neighbours.