Former Nairobi Governor Evans Kidero has begun his new role with the Kenya National Trading Corporation (KNTC) with a decisive and strategic start. Kidero, who was appointed by President William Ruto to chair the KNTC Board of Directors, marked his first day with a crucial inaugural meeting that set the tone for the corporation’s future. The meeting, held at the KNTC headquarters, was significant not just for Kidero but for the future direction of the state-owned enterprise, which plays a key role in stabilizing commodity prices, supporting small and medium enterprises (SMEs), and boosting Kenya’s trade competitiveness.
Kidero was warmly received by Alfred Kombundo, the Principal Secretary for Trade, who formally introduced him to the KNTC board members. This formal reception highlighted the importance of Kidero’s appointment and the expectations surrounding his leadership of the corporation. The KNTC has a pivotal role in Kenya’s economy, and Kidero’s leadership is expected to steer it towards new heights of governance and operational excellence.
The inaugural meeting, which took place on Monday, was focused on laying the groundwork for the corporation’s governance structures, strategic plans, and financial management frameworks. Kidero’s leadership was evident as he guided discussions on key areas such as stakeholder collaboration, long-term sustainability, and the role of the KNTC in improving market access and ensuring the availability of essential goods. According to a statement from the corporation, the meeting was designed to ensure that KNTC not only fulfills its mandate but also adheres to the principles of accountability, transparency, and efficiency.
“These agenda items are designed to ensure that the corporation not only fulfills its mandate but also adheres to the principles of accountability, transparency, and efficiency in serving national interests,” the statement said. It is clear that Kidero’s appointment comes at a critical juncture for the corporation, as it seeks to strengthen its role in stabilizing commodity prices and enhancing the country’s trade competitiveness.
The KNTC’s mission includes promoting fair trade and supporting SMEs across Kenya. With Kidero at the helm, there is optimism that the corporation will be better positioned to support the growth of SMEs, which are a cornerstone of the Kenyan economy. Kidero’s strategic focus on governance and financial management is expected to deliver long-term benefits not only for KNTC but for the broader economy as well.
The session was also pivotal in addressing the corporation’s future role in national trade. It focused on how KNTC could enhance its capacity to stabilize prices, particularly for essential commodities. These are matters that directly affect millions of Kenyans, particularly those in lower-income brackets. As Kenya grapples with inflation and rising commodity prices, the role of KNTC in stabilizing the market and ensuring access to affordable goods becomes ever more important.
The KNTC’s efforts to improve governance and management practices are part of a broader initiative to ensure that state-owned enterprises (SOEs) operate in the best interests of the public. This is especially important as Kenya continues to focus on increasing the efficiency of its state-owned entities, which are central to the delivery of key services and the management of critical economic sectors.
Kidero’s appointment, which was confirmed by a Gazette notice dated November 15, marks his return to government following a brief hiatus. His previous foray into government saw him serve as Nairobi’s governor from 2013 to 2017. After a failed attempt to secure the Chief Administrative Secretary (CAS) position in the Ministry of Trade earlier this year, Kidero’s appointment to the KNTC marks a significant comeback in President Ruto’s administration.
The appointment also comes after the revocation of Hussein Tene Debasso’s tenure at the helm of KNTC, signaling a fresh start for the corporation under Kidero’s leadership. His extensive experience in public administration and governance will likely prove invaluable in this new role.
As Kidero assumes his new responsibilities, all eyes will be on the KNTC to see how the corporation adapts to the challenges ahead and delivers on its mandate to promote fair trade, improve market access, and stabilize essential goods prices. His leadership will undoubtedly play a central role in shaping the future of this critical institution in Kenya’s trade sector.
