Cabinet Secretary for Foreign and Diaspora Affairs, Dr. Alfred Mutua Kagwe, reaffirmed Kenya’s longstanding and strategic partnership with the Netherlands during a diplomatic reception held to celebrate His Majesty King Willem-Alexander’s birthday. The event took place at the residence of the Netherlands Ambassador to Kenya, Henk Jan Bakker, and brought together senior government officials, diplomats, and business leaders.
The celebration, known as King’s Day, served as a symbolic backdrop to highlight over 60 years of diplomatic and economic collaboration between the two nations. Speaking at the event, CS Kagwe commended the Netherlands for its continued commitment to supporting Kenya’s development, particularly in the agriculture sector.
The Kenya–Netherlands relationship is deeply rooted in shared goals of sustainability, innovation, and inclusive growth. From thriving horticulture exports to pioneering climate-smart agriculture technologies, the partnership has played a critical role in strengthening Kenya’s food systems and empowering its farming communities.
“The Netherlands has been instrumental in enhancing Kenya’s agricultural value chain,” CS Kagwe remarked. “Our cooperation is a blueprint for successful international collaboration focused on sustainability and mutual prosperity.”
Kenya stands as the Netherlands’ top trading partner in the East African region, while the Netherlands continues to be Kenya’s leading export destination within the European Union. In 2024 alone, Kenyan exports to the Netherlands surpassed USD 600 million, a testament to the robust economic ties between the two nations.
Ambassador Henk Jan Bakker emphasized the significance of these connections, noting that the Netherlands sees Kenya not just as a trade partner but as a strategic ally in driving innovation and achieving global sustainability targets.
“The partnership between our countries is one of action and impact,” said Ambassador Bakker. “It is rooted in trust, shared values, and a commitment to creating inclusive opportunities for all.”
The King’s Day reception not only celebrated the Dutch monarch but also symbolized the deepening friendship and future promise of Kenya-Netherlands relations, built on decades of cooperation and a mutual vision for sustainable development.
