There are hidden opportunities in the Covid-19 pandemic

At the moment, the coronavirus that has hit Kenya and the whole world is like a deep, black hole.

People are worried about their future, the future of their families, the education of their children, the state of their businesses and the health of their loved ones.

However, we should not let uncertainty and anxiety to take control and destroy our dreams. In every crisis, there lies an opportunity. To benefit from the current situation, our level of creativity is paramount.

A look at the global supply chain reveals that for many years, most goods were imported from China. Economists have warned for a long time that this dependence on China derails the development of industries in Kenya. Each good purchased here creates jobs in China at the expense of Kenyans. But instead investing in our country’s future, many people saved  an extra shilling to buy cheaper Chinese products.

But now, the Covid-19 plague has disrupted many activities among them the global supply chain. Many Chinese factories have shut down, and the containers can’t find ships to transport them. Kenyans who used to make a good living importing and exporting need to readapt quickly.

This is a crucial moment where the government needs to intervene and act swiftly. While businessmen and shoppers alike are looking for the Chinese products which cannot currently find a way here, the government needs to give incentives to manufacturers.  

The only advantage that Chinese manufacturers have over Kenyan industries is cheap labour. But with many of the workers being ordered to stay at home Chinese products are no longer cheaper than a locally produced ones.

Smart people will take advantage of the Covid-19 crisis. The government has encouraged Kenyans to support the Kenyan manufacturing sector by buying locally produced goods.

The government has unveiled the Big Four Agenda that has manufacturing as a key component. 

And now, with global trade stuttering because of the coronavirus, even the biggest sceptics agree that this is a crucial branch needed for our economic survival and recovery.

It is time our bright and drive youth to take advantage of the government’s invitation to make Kenya thrive. The biggest opportunities lie in the textile, leather, ICT and manufacture of fast moving consumer goods.  

The government has long advocated for African solutions to African problems. Products made in Kenya will play a huge part in safeguarding our economy during these difficult times.