President William Ruto has announced a Ksh1.4 billion ($11 million) collaboration between Kenya and the United States aimed at boosting the export of textiles. Speaking in Machakos County during the inauguration of Nexgen Packaging Kenya EPZ Limited, Ruto emphasized that this partnership will not only create job opportunities but also revolutionize the nation’s fashion industry.

Describing the investment as a game-changer, President Ruto highlighted its potential to enhance Kenya’s apparel manufacturing sector and introduce advanced capabilities to the textile subsector. He stated, “Our strategic interventions in the textile and apparel sub-sector have provided Kenya with a competitive advantage, attracting investors and growing the manufacturing base.”

Emphasizing the significance of quality control and scaling up production, Ruto reiterated the government’s dedication to maximizing the textile and apparel sub-sector’s growth. He emphasized the importance of fabric production in positioning Kenyan-made apparel competitively in global markets.

Furthermore, Ruto disclosed the government’s efforts to expand cotton production, increasing acreage from 44,000 to 104,000 acres to support local fabric manufacturing. Addressing water challenges in EPZ, Athi River, and Kitengela, the President assured residents of ongoing initiatives to tackle the issue.

US Ambassador to Kenya Meg Whitman commended the partnership, expressing mutual commitment to fostering beneficial collaborations between the two nations, particularly in the realm of investments.