TradeMark Africa (TMA) has appointed Lillian Mwai Ndegwa as the Country Director for Kenya, a move that reinforces its commitment to strengthening Kenya’s trade landscape.
Her leadership will be instrumental in advancing TMA’s multi-million-dollar strategy, aimed at expanding Kenya’s exports, leveraging the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA), and attracting high-value investments.
Bringing over 15 years of experience in international development, Ms. Ndegwa will lead initiatives focused on enhancing market access, reducing trade barriers, and fostering sustainable economic growth.
One of the flagship projects under her watch is a European Union-funded initiative, in collaboration with the Government of Kenya, which aims to shift at least 50% of Kenya’s horticultural exports from air to sea.
This shift will lower transport costs, enhance export competitiveness, and secure global market access.
Her appointment comes as TMA rolls out its 2023–2030 strategy, which prioritizes inclusive, green, and digital trade.
Already, Kenya’s Country Programme has established key partnerships with government agencies, including the Kenya Revenue Authority and Kenya Ports Authority, to automate trade processes for faster export clearance.
Additionally, TMA is working closely with the private sector to help businesses increase the value and quality of export goods.
Over the past decade, TMA’s collaboration with the Government of Kenya and private sector has yielded significant improvements in trade efficiency.
These include reduced clearance times at Mombasa Port, smoother border crossings at Busia and other entry points, and faster certification processing—all contributing to lower trade costs and a stronger economy.
Reflecting on her new role, Ms. Ndegwa expressed her enthusiasm:
“I am honoured to join TMA at such a pivotal time when the organisation is spearheading transformative trade initiatives across the region. I look forward to working with our partners to drive sustainable trade growth and economic development in Kenya.”
Before joining TMA, Ms. Ndegwa served as Country Director for Swisscontact, where she championed vocational education to tackle youth unemployment and address Kenya’s shortage of technical skills.
Her career also includes a tenure at KPMG’s International Development Advisory Services, where she specialized in audit, compliance, and SME development.
With her extensive expertise, Ms. Ndegwa is poised to lead Kenya’s trade transformation, fostering a business-friendly environment that benefits both local enterprises and the broader economy.
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