Italian trio signs Kenya growth pact
SACE, SIMEST and Assomac have signed an agreement to support the international growth of Italian companies in Kenya and other African markets.
The deal was formalised during the Italy–Kenya Business Forum, organised by the Italian Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation and the Italian Trade Agency. Discussions at the forum covered sectors including infrastructure, energy, agro-industry and leather.
The agreement focuses on companies producing technologies and components for footwear, leather goods and tanning. It aims to create export and investment opportunities while supporting the development of more structured and competitive production systems in Kenya and across Africa.
The three organisations will work together on joint initiatives, promotional activities and training sessions, alongside regular information exchange. The objective is to strengthen the international competitiveness of Italian companies and improve access to new markets.
SACE Chief executive Michele Pignotti described Kenya as a strategic gateway to East Africa and linked the initiative to Italy’s Mattei Plan for Africa. Chairman Vittorio de Pedys, SIMEST, said the agreement supports long-term, responsible investment and the development of local production chains.
Assomac Chairman Mauro Bergozza, Assomac, added that the collaboration could serve as a model for strengthening leather supply chains across the African continent.
SACE is Italy’s export credit agency, providing financial support and insurance tools for companies operating internationally. SIMEST is part of the CDP Group and supports Italian businesses in their overseas expansion through investment and financing instruments.
