The African Export-Import Bank (Afreximbank) has formally activated the Africa Trade Gateway (ATG) Kenya chapter after it struck a partnership deal with the Kenyan Government.
What this means is that Kenya will strengthen its role in Africa’s digital trade ecosystem, given its position as a digital hub on the continent.
The partnership was officiated during a Digital Trade Workshop themed Boosting Trade in Kenya through the Africa Trade Gateway (ATG).
ATG is a secure, low-cost digital ecosystem designed to break down trade barriers, link businesses, and unlock Africa’s economic potential.
In total, ATG has so far generated $3.5 billion in trade requests following its networking with 90 banks across 35 African countries, 45 trade associations, and more than 35,000 verified businesses.
“This is a commitment to align with the aspirations of African and Kenyan traders, entrepreneurs, and financial institutions by deploying real solutions that make trade more predictable, more secure, and more efficient,” said the President and Chairman of Afreximbank’s Board of Directors, Kudakwashe Matereke.
Kenya’s delegation was represented by Corporatives and MSME Cabinet Secretary Wycliffe Oparanya, who challenged all participating parties to facilitate more trading opportunities for all African states.
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“This is the beginning of a new era of trade facilitation, market access, and inclusive growth. With ATG, even the smallest businesses will gain access to affordable trade finance, digital transformation, and wider continental markets,” said CS Oparanyna.
According to the CS, Kenya accounts for 98% of all businesses and employs over 85% of the workforce, and stands to benefit significantly from ATG’s tools.
The workshop comes at a time when the continent is beginning to realise the effects of digital solutions, in a bid to operationalize the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA).
Through the integration of the Pan-African Payment and Settlement System, (PAPSS) businesses can now conduct transparent payments in local currencies, backed by Afreximbank’s financing facilities.
Fatma Bashir, Head of Trade Department at the Kenya National Chamber of Commerce and Industry (KNCCI), called on the business community to seize the opportunity:
“Kenya’s business community must harness ATG as a gateway to new markets, improved efficiency, and sustainable growth. This platform is not just about trade facilitation – it is about positioning Africa as a global trade powerhouse.”
