Ecobank is calling for increased cross-border trade as a catalyst to attract regional investment, create employment opportunities and fast-track economic growth. The lender with a presence in 36 African countries said providing financing, innovative trade and payment solutions to customers was vital to facilitate cross-border trade and mobilising foreign direct investment. “Trade and commodity finance solutions remains key towards promoting regional trade and creating positive trade relations between neighbouring countries,” group regional executive for Central, Eastern, and Southern African Samuel Adjei said. Value of imports from East African Countries to Kenya in 2015 increased to Sh 40.2 billion from Sh36.6 billion in 2014, the economic survey 2016 shows. Value of imports from Comesa rose to Sh67.1 billion from Sh 60.4 billion in 2014.

Source: The Star May 12, 2016 20:49 UTC