The Kenya National Chamber of Commerce and Industry (KNCCI) has appointed Ahmed Farah, HSC, as its new Chief Executive Officer. The announcement, made by the KNCCI Board of Directors, highlights Mr. Farah’s extensive experience in economic and trade development, as well as his commitment to enhancing Kenya’s global trade presence.
Previously, Mr. Farah served as the Country Director for TradeMark Africa (TMA) in Kenya, where he played a pivotal role in advancing Kenya’s economic agenda through regional integration. His work in TMA focused on strategic partnerships that increased both domestic and international investments for infrastructural modernization, digital trade facilitation, and strengthening Kenya’s position within regional trade systems. With his new role at KNCCI, Mr. Farah is expected to draw on this expertise to support SMEs and foster an inclusive trade ecosystem across Kenya.
The appointment aligns with KNCCI’s mission to drive economic growth and expand support for local businesses. Farah’s extensive background and deep-seated commitment to empowering small and medium enterprises (SMEs) resonate with the Chamber’s strategic goals. Dr. Erick Rutto, Chamber President, expressed confidence that Farah’s leadership will bolster KNCCI’s impact within Kenya and across regional markets, saying, “Ahmed Farah’s vision aligns with KNCCI’s commitment to enhancing Kenya’s competitive edge on the global market.”
Mr. Farah’s role in Kenya’s National Investment Council, launched by President William Ruto, underscores his understanding of Kenya’s economic priorities. His participation in this council, which focuses on advancing sustainable investments, is likely to reinforce KNCCI’s efforts to position Kenya as a leading investment destination in Africa.
An alumnus of the University of Hertfordshire, UK, Mr. Farah holds an MA in International Development and is recognized for his progressive leadership approach in various sectors, from trade facilitation to public-private partnerships. As KNCCI’s new CEO, he is poised to play a critical role in shaping Kenya’s economic future by fostering a conducive environment for business growth.
Farah expressed gratitude for the appointment and emphasized his commitment to KNCCI’s mission and vision of growing Kenya’s business ecosystem.