BIC East Africa Champions Kenya’s Industrial Growth and Educational Impact

BIC, a global leader in stationery, lighters, and shavers, has reaffirmed its strong commitment to the Kenyan economy, local job creation, and regional trade. During a recent media tour at its state-of-the-art manufacturing plant in Kasarani, Nairobi, BIC showcased its dedication to local production, innovation, and sustainable economic development across East Africa.

The Kasarani facility serves as a regional manufacturing hub, producing essential consumer goods for both the domestic market and export. It plays a key role in BIC’s broader “Horizon” strategy, launched in 2020, which focuses on expanding its core product categories through innovation and localized operations. The factory processes millions of units annually, supporting a homegrown industrial output that supplies markets throughout East Africa and beyond.

“Local manufacturing is at the heart of our operations,” said Paloma Lengema, General Manager at BIC East Africa.
“We are proud to contribute to regional value chains, create meaningful jobs, and deliver products tailored to local needs through sustainable practices. Our Nairobi plant is more than just a production site; it’s a strategic asset supporting Kenya’s industrialization agenda and BIC’s global growth.”

Beyond direct manufacturing, BIC East Africa’s expansive supply chain and distribution networks have created a ripple effect in employment, fueling a vibrant ecosystem of local businesses and service providers. Since establishing its subsidiary in Kenya in 2019—following years of distribution through HACO Industries—BIC has employed hundreds of Kenyans, directly supporting families and communities.

BIC’s ambitions in East Africa extend beyond stationery. The company’s diverse product portfolio, which includes lighters and shavers, is tailored to meet the region’s evolving consumer needs. Under its global “Writing the Future, Together” initiative, BIC aims to improve learning conditions for 250 million students by 2025. So far, over 200 million students worldwide have benefited.

In Kenya, this global mission comes to life through impactful educational campaigns. The “Buy Me and BIC Will Donate a Pen” initiative has distributed 1.5 million pens, reaching 150,000 students this year alone. Additionally, the “Express Myself with My BIC Pen” program has empowered more than 50,000 students through handwriting and self-expression, reflecting the company’s enduring commitment to learning, creativity, and sustainability.

As BIC East Africa continues to grow, its investments in manufacturing, community engagement, and education highlight a deep and ongoing partnership with Kenya’s development goals—demonstrating that global business success can go hand in hand with local impact.