The East Africa Bakery and Pastry Expo recently had the pleasure of hosting the Bakers Summit, an engaging event that placed a spotlight on the burgeoning baking sector in the region. Moderated by Humphrey Odhiambo, the Summit was a hive of insights and progressive conversations.
A significant theme permeating through the Summit was the power of collaboration. Humphrey emphasized the importance of stakeholders such as NEMA, financial institutions, and the Kenya Bureau of Standards coming together. “The growth of our sector relies on us joining hands to collectively drive it forward,” Humphrey noted.
Indeed, the future of baking looks promising. Dough-making, while an ancient craft, has transformed significantly with the advent of new technologies and market demands. “Managing a bakery now requires specialized knowledge. The need to adapt to changing market trends has never been more critical,” Humphrey said. He praised NEMA for their guidance in discussions around compliance, branding, and packaging.
The Summit was carefully segmented to cover various aspects of the baking industry. The first day focused on the science of flour, compliance, and brand positioning, with NEMA providing key insights on packaging regulations. Participants asked thoughtful questions, enriching the experience and setting the tone for future industry engagements.
As for future sessions, Humphrey expressed his excitement for an upcoming meeting where financiers will engage with the baking industry. “The role of financiers and financial institutions in our sector cannot be overstated,” he said, underscoring the importance of this dialogue. The Kenya Bureau of Standards is also expected to collaborate with the sector, further enhancing the quality of engagement.
Looking back, the East Africa Bakers Summit was a success thanks to the engagement and participation of industry players and stakeholders. The event illuminated the path to success in the baking sector, highlighting the power of collaboration and the evolving nature of the industry.
The East Africa Bakery and Pastry Expo and Bakers Summit has set the tone for more insightful and transformative discussions in the baking industry. As we anticipate future events, we invite you to join us in our journey of sharing inspiring stories, practical tips, and expert insights to navigate this dynamic world of baking. Thank you, and stay tuned!
