Kenyan exporters are sounding the alarm over escalating losses and potential layoffs as the ongoing Middle East conflict continues to disrupt vital trade routes and supply chains, effectively cutting off one of the country’s most profitable export destinations.
According to the Kenya National Chamber of Commerce and Industry (KNCCI), the crisis is putting thousands of jobs at risk, with exporters struggling to access markets in the Gulf region where Kenyan goods – especially fresh produce – have long enjoyed strong demand.
In an interview on NTV on Tuesday, March 24, KNCCI President Eric Ruto revealed that the situation has led to a significant drop in export volumes, particularly among businesses that depend on consistent weekly or monthly shipments to stay afloat.
Ruto noted that out of roughly 4,000 KNCCI members involved in exporting, about 1,500 are frequent exporters who are now bearing the brunt of the disruption. He warned that the ongoing challenges have already resulted in losses estimated at up to Ksh1.2 billion, underscoring the growing strain on the sector.