Kenya is steadily positioning itself in the global trade, after Investment, Trade and Investment Cabinet Secretary Lee Kinyanjui, accompanied by Invest Kenya CEO John Mwendwa, held bilateral talks with Kazakhstan’s Minister for Industry and Construction, Nagaspayev Yersaiyn, in Astana, Kazakhstan, aimed at exploring opportunities to deepen cooperation between the two countries.
At the meeting, they discussed potential for direct export of Kenyan tea to Kazakhstan, as much of the Kenyan tea is designated for Central Asia, passing through third countries, which weakens value for farmers and exporters.
CS Kinyanjui extended an invitation to Kazakh investors to establish manufacturing and processing facilities in Kenya’s Special Economic Zones and industrial parks. The idea is to leverage Kenya’s strategic position as a gateway to the African market, creating jobs and opportunities for the youth while boosting industrial growth.
Another critical area of discussion was fertilizer supply chain, as Kazakhstan, being the major producer, is affected by the ongoing global uncertainties at the Strait of Hormuz. Kenya sees a chance to diversify sourcing, ensuring affordable supply to Kenyan farmers.
Kenya proposed the use of the Port of Mombasa and Lamu as transshipment hubs into Africa, reaffirming its role as the region’s trade and logistics gateway.
Beyond trade and agriculture, both countries explored collaboration in technology and fintech as they pursue an ambitious national digitization agenda over the next three years. They also agreed to advance partnerships in the digital space, signaling a modern dimension to their cooperation.
