Evelyn Noah Leaves Export Processing Zones Authority Kenya After 28 Years

• Evelyn Noah leaves Export Processing Zones Authority Kenya after 28 and a half years of service.
• Noah was responsible for AGOA compliance and SME development programs during her tenure.
• Her departure may impact export-oriented investments in Kenya, particularly regarding AGOA compliance.
• Noah served as Trustee of the EPZA Staff Pension Scheme for 26 years and Trust Secretary for four years.
• The EPZA Family wishes Noah a wonderful retirement.

EPZA has been home away from home. I am sad that I have to leave but grateful that my time at EPZA has been enlightening and rewarding.

Evelyn Noah, a long-serving executive at the Export Processing Zones Authority (EPZA) Kenya, bid farewell to the organization in May 2023 after an impressive 28 and a half years of service. Her tenure began in September 1994 when she joined EPZA as an Executive Officer in the Finance Department, handling development and donor-funded projects. Over the years, Noah was redeployed to various departments, including New Investments, Operations and Investor Support, and Small and Medium Enterprises (SME) Development. In her final role, she oversaw the SME Development Program, which aims to support Kenyan SMEs seeking to establish themselves under the EPZ program.

Noah's expertise in the African Growth and Opportunity Act (AGOA) is particularly noteworthy. She handled the AGOA desk since its inception in May 2000, providing valuable insights into the complex trade agreement. Her knowledge of textile and apparel matters also made her a sought-after representative for local and international forums and events. Additionally, Noah served as the Trustee of the EPZA Staff Pension Scheme for 26 years and the Trust Secretary for four years, demonstrating her commitment to the well-being of her colleagues.

Noah's departure from EPZA may have significant implications for export-oriented investments in Kenya. As an expert on AGOA compliance and SME development programs, her absence may create a knowledge gap that could impact the country's trade relationships with the US and other countries. Lawyers advising clients on export-oriented investments should take note of this leadership change and its potential consequences. The EPZA Family wishes Noah a wonderful retirement, but her departure marks the end of an era at the Authority.

Lawyers advising clients on export-oriented investments in Kenya should note the potential impact of leadership changes at EPZA, particularly regarding AGOA compliance and SME development programs.

Source: Original reporting via The Authority