Embakasi East MP Babu Owino has called on the government to place manufacturing at the centre of its economic agenda, saying it is the key to job creation and sustainable growth.

Speaking during the Murang’a Investment Conference held on Friday, June 13, 2025, Owino said Kenya’s economy will only thrive if leaders prioritise domestic production and reduce overreliance on imports.

“The moment we embrace manufacturing, that is the point our economy will boost and grow,” Owino said, adding that domestic absorption would help ensure money circulates locally.

The MP encouraged both national and county governments to expand support for agriculture and industry, saying the industrial revolution must reach ordinary Kenyans if the country is to see meaningful progress.

Budget push for industry

Owino’s call came just a day after Treasury CS John Mbadi unveiled the 2025/26 budget, allocating KSh 18 billion to the manufacturing sector through various ministries and agencies.

The CS highlighted investments in agro-industrial parks, textile hubs, and enterprise recovery projects, noting that the aim is to boost local industries and value chains.

Among the proposals were KSh 4.5 billion for county-based agro-industrial parks, KSh 2.8 billion for enterprise financing under the SEFA project, and KSh 705 million for export processing zone hubs.

However, the allocation is lower than the Ksh 23.7 billion set aside in the 2024/25 financial year, signaling a budget squeeze despite growing demand for industrial funding.

Creating jobs locally

According to Owino, investing in local manufacturing will not only empower citizens economically but also help address unemployment.

He told delegates in Murang’a that focusing on value addition in agriculture and expanding industrial capacity would allow more young people to earn decent incomes while contributing to national development.

He urged leaders attending the conference to work with the private sector and development partners to ensure Kenya becomes a manufacturing hub for East Africa.

“We boost agriculture, we boost industry, and our people will get jobs,” he said.

From words to action

The MP’s remarks reflect wider political and public interest in transforming Kenya’s production model.

As pressure mounts on the government to deliver post-budget results, stakeholders are watching closely to see whether the manufacturing sector will receive the support necessary to lift the economy and improve livelihoods in 2025 and beyond.