Kenya, Qatar deepen trade and diplomatic relations

Speaking during Qatar National Day celebrations in Nairobi, Kenya’s Cabinet Secretary for Mining and the Blue Economy, Hassan Ali Joho, emphasized the key areas of collaboration between the two nations.

He highlighted Qatar’s $5 million contribution to a $10 million climate-resilient agriculture project under the Qatar Fund for Development.

“This partnership exemplifies Qatar’s unwavering support in driving Kenya’s bottom-up economic transformation agenda,” Joho said. 

He also praised Qatar’s efforts to enhance labour relations, citing the employment of over 70,000 Kenyans in Qatar.

Joho noted that plans to establish a Qatar visa centre in Nairobi will address labour mobility challenges, streamline pre-departure processes, and ensure a smooth transition for Kenyan workers.

On trade, Joho urged both nations to expand market access and increase trade volumes. In 2023, Kenya exported goods worth $17.47 million to Qatar, including horticultural produce, fish, and livestock. Imports from Qatar, valued at $59.82 million, included fertilizers, chemicals, plastics, and liquefied petroleum gas.

Qatar’s Ambassador to Kenya, Mohammed Mutair Al-Shamlani Al-Anzi, lauded Kenya’s partnership and commitment to fostering closer ties.

 “I am happy today to celebrate Qatar National Day and welcome you all to join us in this celebration. This day allows us to honour the resilience and milestones that have shaped the State of Qatar while appreciating the friendship and cooperation we enjoy with Kenya,” said Al-Anzi.

The Ambassador underscored Qatar’s dedication to advancing shared goals, particularly in economic development and labour relations.

The event also celebrated Qatar’s contributions to global peace and security, with Kenya commending its mediation efforts in the Horn of Africa and the Middle East. Both nations pledged to finalize pending agreements, including MOUs on the Blue Economy and fisheries, to strengthen their economic and diplomatic ties further.