Nairobi — Kenya is leading a push for targeted sector-based investment across Africa through the inaugural NextFrontierAfrica Summit, which opened today in Nairobi.

The summit brings together investors, policymakers, innovators, and development partners to explore ways to unlock capital and accelerate growth across high-potential sectors on the continent.

Kenya Development Corporation (KDC) Director General Norah Ratemo described the summit as a defining moment for Kenya's economic transformation, with a focus on digital and creative industries, healthcare, tourism, manufacturing, and post-harvest management.

"These sectors contribute significantly to our GDP," said Ratemo. "By driving investment into them, we believe we can unlock substantial economic value."

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Ratemo added that KDC's mandate is to de-risk investments and bridge the gap between capital and innovation. A key highlight of the summit is the launch of a "Deal Room," where entrepreneurs and innovators pitch projects directly to investors--an initiative aimed at driving both local and foreign direct investment.

The event comes as Kenya increasingly leverages domestic pension funds and financial institutions to support development while positioning itself as a gateway for international capital.

State Department for Trade Principal Secretary Juma Mukhwana emphasized that Kenya's investment strategy is anchored on inclusive growth, particularly through support for Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs).

"Our strategy is focused on unlocking quality investments that generate decent jobs and drive sustainable prosperity. MSMEs make up over 90% of private sector activity and employ nearly 80% of Kenya's workforce," Mukhwana said.

Insights and data gathered during the summit are expected to inform KDC's Strategic Plan 2.0, helping shape targeted financing solutions and identify capital access gaps in high-growth sectors.