Thailand has reaffirmed its commitment to deepening bilateral relations with Kenya through its innovative “5Fs” concept: Food, Fighting, Film, Fashion, and Festivals. Speaking during Thailand’s National Day celebrations in Nairobi, Ambassador Morakot Janemathukorn outlined the Kingdom’s focus on fostering resilience, sustainability, and inclusivity in its partnership with Kenya.
Thailand’s Sustainability Approach
Ambassador Janemathukorn emphasized the Thai philosophy of sustainability, rooted in moderation, reasonableness, and self-immunity. While these principles have been traditionally applied in agriculture, they extend to various economic and social sectors, underpinning Thailand’s engagement with Kenya.
She highlighted high-level discussions between the Thai International Cooperation Agency and the Kenyan government held in September 2024, which set the stage for the upcoming Thailand-Africa Development Forum. These initiatives aim to solidify future development cooperation and explore opportunities for mutual growth.
Collaboration in Medicine and Technology
In a groundbreaking move, Thailand has initiated knowledge-sharing efforts with Kenya in healthcare. A recent visit by the Kenya Medical Research Institute (KEMRI) provided insights into Thailand’s successful integration of traditional and alternative medicine into its modern public health system. Thailand, renowned for its healthcare innovations in Asia, is keen to support Kenya in this domain.
Furthermore, Thai Bio-Circular-Green (BCG) companies are exploring potential collaborations with Kenyan counterparts. These partnerships are expected to promote sustainable practices and spur economic development.
Building Skills for Kenya’s Youth
Ambassador Janemathukorn underscored Thailand’s efforts to empower Kenyan youth by introducing alternative career opportunities in Thai cuisine and martial arts. Thai professionals from Rajamangala University of Technology Krungthep, Lanna Fighting Muay Thai, and Tee Sud Show have been instrumental in sharing their expertise with local entrepreneurs and young talent.
Such initiatives are part of Thailand’s strategy to increase cultural exchange and foster people-to-people connectivity, aligning with Kenya’s aspirations for inclusivity and skill development.
Expanding Trade Relations
While Thailand and Kenya have enjoyed diplomatic ties since 1967, the trade balance remains tilted in Thailand’s favor. Kenya’s exports to Thailand amounted to $28.8 million in 2023, significantly lower than the $140.1 million in imports.
Agriculture Principal Secretary Paul Ronoh, the guest of honor at the National Day celebrations, called for a renewed focus on addressing this imbalance. He lauded Thailand’s continued support through initiatives such as the Thailand-Kenya Agro-Technology Learning Center in Nyeri, which provides critical capacity-building assistance in agriculture.
Foreign Affairs PS Korir Sing’Oei also urged Thailand to increase its investments in Kenya and expedite the second session of the Joint Commission for Bilateral Cooperation (JCBC). This forum, last convened in 2010, is expected to provide a robust framework for enhanced collaboration.
Tourism and Cultural Exchange
In 2024, Kenyan entrepreneurs participated in the Thaifex Anuga Asia exhibition in Bangkok, highlighting the potential for trade and tourism synergies. Ambassador Janemathukorn expressed Thailand’s intention to increase its investments in Kenya’s hospitality sector, leveraging the “Amazing Thailand meets Magical Kenya” theme.
Through cultural exchange programs focused on food, fashion, and festivals, Thailand seeks to share the essence of its rich heritage. The introduction of the 5Fs concept has garnered significant interest among Kenyan entrepreneurs and youth, paving the way for stronger ties between the two nations.
A Bright Future Ahead
As Kenya marks 60 years of independence, its relationship with Thailand continues to thrive. The two nations are united by a shared vision of resilience, inclusivity, and sustainable development. With initiatives spanning healthcare, agriculture, technology, and culture, Thailand and Kenya are poised to unlock new opportunities for growth and prosperity.
The upcoming Thailand-Africa Development Forum and the revival of the JCBC are expected to further deepen these ties, ensuring that the partnership between Thailand and Kenya remains a model for international cooperation in the 21st century.
