Trade Cabinet Secretary nominee Lee Kinyanjui has told Parliament that prioritising the trade sector will help turn around Kenya’s economy.

 He proposed making exports a national priority, particularly food products to the Middle East.

Appearing before the National Assembly Appointments Committee on Monday, Kinyanjui said local investors, especially in cottage industries, should be encouraged to grow.

“I would like to call on Kenyans to take advantage of the huge market for food products in the Middle East to boost their incomes,” said Kinyanjui.

Kinyanjui also vowed to address issues concerning small industries and the policies affecting them.

National Assembly Majority Leader Kimani Ichungwah asked how Kinyanjui planned to harmonise policy and legislation to support cottage industries without harming larger industries.

Kinyanjui promised to tackle this disharmony.

The nominee highlighted manufacturing’s role in the economy, noting that energy costs remain a major challenge for industries.

 “I will work with my colleagues in government to ensure that this is addressed,” he said.

Ichungwah noted that Kenya once led in manufacturing contribution to GDP but has since been overtaken by Uganda.

 Kinyanjui promised to reverse this situation.

The nominee also called for better conditions for small-scale businesspeople, vowing to champion the timely payment of suppliers and work with the National Treasury to resolve delays.

He stressed the importance of prioritising local manufacturing sectors and economic zones in each county.

 Kinyanjui pointed out Kenya’s geothermal power production and called for expanding the country’s cargo handling capacity to increase business volumes.

He also defended the country’s pharmaceutical industry, stating that policies are being implemented to retain foreign companies.

Addressing allegations of misconduct as Nakuru Governor, Kinyanjui denied claims that he authorised the rounding up of street children, calling the accusations political propaganda.

He also defended his record on foreign travel expenditure, describing the reported figure of Sh 53 million as modest.

Kinyanjui disclosed his net worth as Sh 471 million, largely from shares in family businesses, property and land.