Diversifying Kenya's exports for economic prosperity

Workers packaging avocados at Keitt Exporters Ltd on Thika road. [File, Standard]

Trade has been a cornerstone of human civilisation, beginning with the ancient barter system and evolving into today's complex international agreements.

In the earliest days, barter trade, a system where people directly exchanged goods without a standard currency, was essential for survival, yet it had limitations. Disparities in value, seasonal shortages, and the challenge of matching each other's needs fairly, often led to conflicts and stalled exchanges. Such misalignments in wants and resources made transactions cumbersome and hindered economic growth.