Agency lauds Kenya’s success at hosting Agoa meeting

By Luke Anami

Accolades are still pouring in on Kenya’s success at hosting the African Growth and Opportunity Act (Agoa). The conference opened a window for local traders to establish direct marketing links with US companies and other African firms.

Gina Din Corporate Communications, one of the parties involved in facilitating media accreditation, said the forum had defined mechanisms for African countries and the US to follow up on agreements reached.

"The forum was also an excellent display of Kenyan hospitality at its best," read the statement from Gina Din. "One lesson learnt, going forward, may be for the Government of Kenya to outsource more of what is not their core business."

The forum, held two weeks ago, was a public and private partnership designed to improve business relationships between Africa and US.

Up to 38 Agoa accredited countries from the Sub-Saharan Africa were represented to gain knowledge on this critical agenda.

Top US officials

The forum, which was graced by high ranking US Government officials, led by the US Secretary of State, Hillary Rodham Clinton, addressed issues of trade and investment, governance, corruption, human rights, civil society and private sector partnership among other issues.

The media organisers said the forum showcased Kenya positively.

"Kenya hosted a first class forum, which portrayed professionalism, with a touch of glamour. Clinton was well received and she too proved to be receptive to her Kenyan hosts.

One of the highlights of the meeting was the party night at the Carnivore Restaurant that had all the elements of an international society event.