Foreign and domestic investments in Kenya : case for a protectionist trade legal regime?

Abstract

This study explored the negative impact of blindly pursuing liberal trade policies on Kenya’s quest for sustainable economic development. The thesis is divided into five chapters. The first chapter is a presentation of statement of the problem, justification of the study, objectives, research questions, hypothesis, theoretical framework, research methodology, literature review, limitations, assumptions and disseminations. The second chapter assesses Kenya’s investment and trade le gal regime and it shows the multiplicity of instruments that form the legal and policy framework. The third chapter explores protectionist measures in other jurisdictions and it shows how other countries have benefited from protectionist policies. The fou rth chapter makes a case for adoption of a positive protectionist legal regime in Kenya just as the developed countries have done. The chapter highlights the growing middle class in Kenya that can drive consumption of local products. The final chapter in t his paper provides the conclusions and recommendations of this paper. Based on analysis done, the study recommends that Kenya considers taking the route South Africa has taken by practically caring about its domestic economic agenda.