Richard Ngatia, President of the East Africa Chamber of Commerce, Industry, and Agriculture (EACCIA), has extended warm greetings to the business community across Kenya and the East African region during this joyous Christmas season.

In his heartfelt message, Ngatia, recently appointed to lead the regional chamber following a successful tenure with the Kenyan Chamber of Commerce, emphasized the importance of coming together with friends and family to celebrate, reflect on the year gone by, and strategically plan for the upcoming year.

“As we embrace this festive season, it’s a time not only for reflection on the past year but also for charting a resilient path into 2024. The business landscape in Kenya and East Africa is primed for growth. On behalf of The East Africa Chamber of Commerce, Industry, and Agriculture (EACCIA), I extend warm wishes for a Merry Christmas and a prosperous New Year,” expressed President Ngatia.

“I wish to convey on hehalf of the Board , the CEOs and entire staff of EACCIA a special message to my esteemed colleagues within the business community in Kenya and East Africa, extending heartfelt blessings for a joyous Christmas and a year ahead filled with success. Let us celebrate while also pausing to reflect on the year behind us and strategically plan for the future,” he added.

Despite challenging economic conditions in 2023, the business community in Kenya and East Africa demonstrated resilience, with Ngatia’s leadership playing a pivotal role in fostering growth. As the newly appointed head of the regional chamber, Ngatia is entrusted with the responsibility to inspire and empower entrepreneurs and business leaders across the East African region.

“EACCIA remains steadfast in harnessing gains from trade liberalization initiatives, empowering our members and partners to capitalize on the vast opportunities presented by the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA). In my new capacity, I reaffirm our commitment to championing the EAC regional agenda and expediting the implementation of AfCFTA, fostering an inclusive and equitable trade landscape for the prosperity of all,” stated Ngatia.

Transitioning from the tenure of former EACCIA President Hon Toufiq Salim TURKY, Ngatia highlighted the ongoing journey towards realizing an East African single market while emphasizing the untapped potential of the Customs Union and Common Market.

“To unlock the full potential of regional integration, collaborative efforts among governments, the business community, and the private sector are crucial. EACCIA will advocate for tariff elimination and collaborate closely with regional government institutions to streamline trade policies, standards, and regulations,” Ngatia emphasized.