Two Kenyan entrepreneurs have secured the franchise rights for one of the global Business Network International platforms to operate in Kenya.
The rights mark the entry of CorporateConnections into Kenya and the greater East African region.
The platform, which operates in 33 countries, targets senior executives of companies with an annual turnover of at least $5 million (Sh646 million), linking them with global peers and investment opportunities.
Lilian Gachoki and Nancy Githuku-Kihika, secured the rights and will oversee the establishment and expansion of the platform’s local operations.
Speaking at the launch in Nairobi, CorporateConnections Global Vice President Sri Rathi said Kenya’s growing status as a business hub made it an attractive location for the franchise’s expansion.
“Kenya has solidified its position as a business and innovation hub on the continent. Launching CorporateConnections here is a strategic step that aligns with the country’s leadership in enterprise and innovation,” said Rathi.
The country’s growing consumer base and expanding digital infrastructure continue to attract a new wave of foreign firms seeking to tap into one of Africa’s most dynamic markets.
In recent months, global brands across technology, construction, energy, retail and logistics have announced new operations in the country, betting on Kenya as a strategic entry point into the wider East African region.
According to Kenya Export Promotion and Branding Agency improving market access and providing exporters with real-time information are central to converting that potential into sustained growth.
The Ministry of Trade and related state bodies have also been rolling out strategic initiatives to deepen market linkages.
The Ministry has been developing implementation strategies for major trade arrangements, including steps to operationalize the Kenya-EU Economic Partnership Agreement and has emphasised a centralised digital platform to give businesses market intelligence, compliance guidance and buyer contacts.
CorporateConnections-Kenya officials said the newly launched platform aims to bring together business leaders committed to purposeful growth and cross-border collaboration.
National Director Lilian Gachoki said the forum would connect leaders focused on driving both business expansion and broader impact.
Her co-director, Nancy Githuku-Kihika, noted that the initiative seeks to build an ecosystem that fosters connection, collaboration, and value creation beyond Kenya’s borders.
by JACKTONE LAWI
