Kenya is focused on bolstering its trade and investment relationship with the United Arab Emirates (UAE), as emphasized by Prime Cabinet Secretary Musalia Mudavadi during the UAE’s 53rd National Day celebrations held in Nairobi. Mudavadi reiterated Kenya’s commitment to fostering deeper cooperation, aiming for a future defined by mutual prosperity and shared objectives.
Mudavadi, who also serves as the Foreign and Diaspora Affairs Cabinet Secretary, highlighted the significant role played by the Kenyan diaspora in the UAE. Currently, an estimated 30,000 Kenyans live and work in the UAE, benefiting from the 2018 Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) between the two nations.
“These Kenyans make a significant contribution to our country’s development through diaspora remittances and knowledge transfer, while also bridging the demand for labour in the UAE and Middle East,” said Mudavadi.
Strengthening Bilateral Trade
The UAE is one of Kenya’s most important trading partners, ranking sixth globally. Over the past decade, the value of trade between the two countries has grown substantially, increasing from KSh 142.5 billion in 2013 to KSh 460 billion in 2023. Kenya’s key exports to the UAE include tea, goat and sheep meat, fruits, vegetables, and cut flowers. In return, Kenya imports petroleum products, polymers, and telecommunications equipment from the UAE.
Mudavadi emphasized that Kenya is prioritizing the UAE as a key export market. The ongoing negotiations for the Kenya–UAE Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement (UAEK-CEPA) are expected to further enhance trade, investment, and economic activities. Once finalized, the agreement will particularly benefit sectors aligned with Kenya’s Bottom-Up Economic Transformation Agenda.
Collaborative Economic Initiatives
The resumption of Etihad Airways flights later this year is set to improve connectivity and boost economic activities between the two nations. Mudavadi also noted Kenya’s recent investor roadshow in the UAE in October 2024, which included discussions with the Abu Dhabi Fund for Development. These engagements focused on green investment opportunities, aligning with both nations’ commitment to sustainable development.
Diplomatic Milestones
The UAE’s National Day celebrations coincided with Kenya marking 60 years of its diplomatic journey. The two countries established diplomatic relations in June 1982, which have since grown into a robust political, economic, and social partnership. Numerous agreements and cooperation frameworks have been signed, solidifying economic and commercial ties.
Mudavadi lauded the UAE’s role in promoting renewable energy and its leadership in hosting the International Renewable Energy Agency (IRENA) in Abu Dhabi. Kenya and the UAE collaborated during the launch of the Accelerated Partnership for Renewables in Africa (APRA) at the Africa Climate Summit in Nairobi last year, underscoring their shared commitment to addressing climate change challenges.
A Shared Vision for Sustainability
Kenya and the UAE share a vision for sustainability, with Kenya aspiring to foster green investments. The UAE’s initiatives in renewable energy and sustainability align with Kenya’s ambitions to combat climate change while promoting economic growth.
Mudavadi’s remarks underscored the importance of this partnership, particularly in creating opportunities for Kenyans abroad, advancing trade, and fostering mutual prosperity. By strengthening ties with the UAE, Kenya is positioning itself as a key player in the global economic landscape while supporting its domestic goals for growth and transformation.
This strategic partnership between Kenya and the UAE continues to evolve, promising a future of deeper cooperation and shared benefits for both nations.
