The US seems to see huge potential in Africa to keep investing in the sector there and more specifically in Kenya. Last week, USAID and the East Africa Trade and Investment Hub (the Hub) signed a grant with Kenya that will create 2,000 full-time jobs and provide 1,00,000+ hours in skills development for young workers in the apparel industry.

While Africa looks as a strong region for robust apparel sourcing, the biggest drawback has been a lack of sophisticated logistics/skills in the apparel segment. Post this new program, however, young workers — who are expected to drive the sector forward — will gain skills. USAID; Kenya’s Ministry of Industry, Trade and Cooperatives; the Kenya Association of Manufacturers; and apparel companies will set up seven training centers throughout Kenya. Four thousand young people will participate in the program which encompasses recruitment, training and job placement in the apparel industry.

The signing of the grant also marks the official kick-off of the East Africa Cotton, Textile and Apparel Workforce Development Initiative, a partnership between the Hub and the American Apparel and Footwear Association (AAFA) to ensure US brands and retailers goods are manufactured as per best business practices and operations, according to USAID.

Last year the US imported $340.7 million worth of textiles and apparel from Kenya, which was a 7.56 per cent decrease as against the previous year. As of May, imports from Kenya were down 7.31 percent to $133.7 million. As other trade programs or trade relations become pressured, if AGOA stays intact, imports are expected to increase.