The US Trade and
Development Agency (USTDA) has signed a grant agreement with Kenyan technology
company Semiconductor Technologies Limited (STL) to conduct a feasibility study
for a new semiconductor fabrication facility. The grant was signed during Kenyan
President William S. Ruto's state visit to the United States.
The facility, to be built
on the campus of Dedan Kimathi University of Technology in Nyeri, Kenya, will
be Africa's second commercial fabrication facility. USTDA's support will help
diversify and strengthen global supply chains for legacy chips used in various
commercial applications.
"USTDA
is proud to support Kenya's goal of becoming a global technology hub,"
said Enoh T. Ebong, USTDA's Director. "By
partnering with companies like STL, we are advancing the necessary
infrastructure to cement this status."
Semiconductor chips have
a wide range of applications, including energy and power systems, automotive
applications, biotechnology, agriculture, and Internet of Things applications.
The growing demand for semiconductors presents significant opportunities for US
technology exports to fabrication facilities in partner countries like Kenya.
"USTDA's
assistance will unlock significant investment opportunities for STL and the
Kenya semiconductor ecosystem, fostering extensive bilateral and private sector
engagement among the US, Kenya, and the broader continent," said
Dr. Anthony Githinji, STL's Founder and CEO.
USTDA's assistance aligns
with the Biden-Harris Administration's priorities, including the CHIPS and
Science Act of 2022, the Partnership for Global Infrastructure and Investment,
and the Digital Transformation with Africa Initiative.
By: Nana Appiah Acquaye
