Unicaf has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the Kenya Institute of Supplies Management (KISM), marking the beginning of a strategic partnership aimed at strengthening professional development and expanding access to quality higher education for supply chain and procurement professionals in Kenya.
The signing ceremony took place at the KISM offices in Nairobi and brought together representatives from both organisations to formalise a collaborative relationship focused on empowering professionals through education, skills development and access to internationally recognised academic programmes.
KISM is the national professional body mandated to regulate and promote the practice of supply chain management in Kenya. Through its work in setting professional standards, supporting capacity building and advancing professional excellence among procurement and supply chain practitioners, the institute plays a vital role in the development of the sector. Its commitment to professional growth aligns closely with Unicaf’s mission to expand access to affordable, internationally recognised higher education.
Through the partnership, members of KISM, professionals working within the supply chain and procurement sector, as well as their immediate family members and affiliated stakeholders, will gain access to scholarship opportunities. These scholarships will allow eligible beneficiaries to pursue undergraduate and postgraduate programmes offered through the Unicaf platform in collaboration with leading partner universities in the United Kingdom and Africa.
The collaboration is expected to generate significant benefits for both organisations and the wider professional community. By providing access to globally relevant academic programmes, the initiative will support the professional development of KISM members while enabling them to gain internationally recognised qualifications that enhance career progression and leadership opportunities. The partnership will also contribute to strengthening procurement and supply chain systems by supporting the continuous development of skilled professionals across the sector.
Speaking during the ceremony, Mr Kenneth Matiba, Chief Executive Officer of KISM, highlighted the importance of continuous learning within the profession. He noted that the partnership with Unicaf will provide members with valuable opportunities to pursue higher education while advancing their careers. He added that investing in education is essential to strengthening the capacity of supply chain professionals and ensuring organisations have the expertise required to operate successfully in today’s dynamic business environment.
Ms Winnie Rachael, Country Manager, Unicaf, Kenya, emphasised that the agreement reflects Unicaf’s continued commitment to expanding access to quality international education in Kenya. She noted that through collaborations with professional bodies such as KISM, Unicaf aims to empower professionals with the knowledge and skills needed to thrive in an increasingly competitive and technology-driven global environment.
By combining KISM’s leadership in professional development with Unicaf’s innovative scholarship model and flexible online learning platform, the partnership is expected to create new pathways for education and career advancement for supply chain professionals across Kenya.
