Kenya is poised to make history as the first non-European country to participate in the prestigious “Bürgerfest” festival, scheduled for September 13th to 14th, 2024, in Berlin, Germany. The event, officially known as the Annual Citizen Festival, offers a unique platform for Kenya to reinforce cultural ties, boost tourism, and expand trade and investment opportunities in one of its key international markets.
Foreign Affairs Principal Secretary Dr. Korir Sing’oei highlighted the significance of Kenya’s participation in this landmark event, calling it a tangible and visible milestone in the growing relations between Kenya and Germany, which have spanned over 60 years. “Kenya is eager to participate in the Annual Citizen’s Festival, not only to showcase Kenya’s rich cultural heritage but also to engage in meaningful people-to-people contact with our German friends,” stated Sing’oei.
Germany has long been a vital partner for Kenya, particularly in the realms of foreign direct investment and tourism. With over 100 German companies operating in Kenya, investments are valued at approximately Ksh.150 billion. This significant economic footprint underscores Germany’s role as a leading investor in Kenya and highlights the potential for further expansion through enhanced bilateral engagements like the Bürgerfest.
Boosting Tourism from Germany
Tourism is a cornerstone of Kenya’s economy, and Germany has consistently been one of its key source markets. In the last financial year, Kenya attracted 81,359 German tourists, marking a 23.2% increase from 66,064 visitors in the previous year. This growth trajectory underscores the untapped potential within the German market, which Kenya aims to capitalize on through its participation in the Bürgerfest.
According to Principal Secretary Sing’oei, the festival presents an ideal opportunity to showcase Kenya’s diverse and rich cultural heritage to a broad German audience, thereby stimulating interest and increasing tourist arrivals. “We want to build on this momentum and we see the Bürgerfest as an opportunity to further accelerate this growth,” echoed Principal Secretary for Tourism, John Ololtua. The presence of Kenyan exhibitors and cultural performers at the event is expected to create a captivating experience that will not only attract tourists but also foster greater understanding and appreciation of Kenyan culture among Germans.
Expanding Trade and Labour Opportunities
Beyond tourism, Kenya’s involvement in the Bürgerfest is also strategically aimed at expanding trade and investment links. During the festival, Kenya and Germany are set to sign a Labour Agreement, a key milestone that will facilitate the migration of technical and skilled labour for TVET (Technical and Vocational Education and Training) graduates to work in enterprises across Germany. This agreement is expected to open new avenues for Kenya’s skilled workforce, enhancing job opportunities and contributing to economic growth through remittances.
The Labour Agreement aligns with Kenya’s broader agenda of enhancing youth employment and skills development. It provides a structured pathway for Kenyan professionals, particularly in technical fields, to gain valuable international work experience, thereby enriching Kenya’s human capital base.
Strengthening Bilateral Relations
Kenya’s participation in the Bürgerfest goes beyond economic gains; it represents a deepening of cultural diplomacy between the two nations. By engaging directly with German citizens through this vibrant festival, Kenya aims to foster goodwill, mutual respect, and a deeper understanding between the peoples of both countries. This people-to-people diplomacy is crucial in cementing long-term bilateral relations, which have been marked by collaboration in various sectors, including education, infrastructure, and technology.
In conclusion, Kenya’s groundbreaking involvement in the German Bürgerfest is a strategic move that underscores its commitment to expanding its international presence and leveraging cultural diplomacy to drive economic growth. As the first non-European country to participate in this iconic event, Kenya not only aims to boost tourism and trade but also to pave the way for new opportunities in skilled labour migration, marking a new chapter in the enduring partnership between Kenya and Germany.
