KEPROBA Lauds DRC’s Entry Into the EAC

The Kenya Export Promotion and Branding Agency (KEPROBA) has lauded the entry of the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) into the East African Community (EAC), terming it as a win for trade in the region.

Speaking during a meeting between exporters and the Mombasa County Government, Peter Ochieng, Director of Research and Innovation at KEPROBA said that exports have experienced exponential growth with marets being very protective, especially after recovering from the effects of the COVID-19 pandemic.

“The balance of trade has increased at an astronomical rate and for us to bridge that balance of trade, we must ensure we increase our exports,” said Ochieng.

The introduction of DRC into the EAC is a big boost to the region as it is one of the markets that is receptive to every product Kenya produces.

“For a long time, the Northern corridor has been a preferred transit route for DRC and they have given us a lot of resources by using the Northern corridor and the port of Mombasa so their coming into the EAC brings good tidings because most of our products will access that market on preferential basis including reduced taxes and duties,” said Ocheing.

KEPROBA is a state corporation created in 2019 as a result of an amalgamation of the export promotion council and the Brand Kenya Board.

It is mandated to brand Kenya and Kenyan products as well as promote Kenyan exports to the global markets.