Kenya and Japan reaffirmed their commitment to deepen economic cooperation, with renewed focus on trade, investment, and development partnerships.
Prime Cabinet Secretary and Cabinet Secretary for Foreign and Diaspora Affairs Musalia Mudavadi said Kenya values its long-standing partnership with Japan, noting that it has delivered tangible results across key sectors of the economy.
Mudavadi spoke in Nairobi during talks with a visiting Japanese delegation led by Foreign Minister Toshimitsu Motegi.
“Japan is Kenya’s key and dependable development partner. Our cooperation continues to support critical sectors of the economy,” said Mudavadi.
The two sides reviewed progress in bilateral relations and identified new areas of collaboration, amid what Mudavadi described as a volatile global economic and geopolitical environment.
“We must continue strengthening strategic partnerships to sustain development momentum,” he said.
Mudavadi highlighted a persistent trade imbalance, with Kenya importing more from Japan than it exports.
“There is a need to expand market access for Kenyan products and create a more balanced and mutually beneficial trade relationship,” he said.
Both countries agreed to accelerate efforts to boost Kenyan exports, promote value addition, and enhance business linkages.
Kenya invited Japanese investors to tap into opportunities under Public-Private Partnerships and ongoing economic reforms.
Mudavadi pointed to ongoing discussions on innovative financing, including a proposed Samurai loan structure and funding for key infrastructure projects such as the Mombasa Special Economic Zone Phase II.
“Such financing arrangements are critical in supporting priority national projects and strengthening economic resilience,” he noted.
Japan’s Official Development Assistance has played a major role in Kenya’s development, particularly in geothermal energy, irrigation, infrastructure, health, ICT, and education.
Mudavadi said this support has been instrumental in advancing Kenya’s economic transformation.
On security, Kenya welcomed Japan’s continued support in maritime security and capacity building, which is key to regional stability and trade.
The talks also addressed global governance reforms, with both sides calling for a more inclusive and responsive international system.
Mudavadi expressed concern over ongoing conflicts in Ukraine, the Middle East, and parts of Africa, noting their impact on global supply chains.
“Dialogue remains the most viable path to lasting solutions,” he said.
The two countries pledged to expand cooperation in education, tourism, culture, sports, and technical training through scholarships and exchange programmes.
They also agreed to strengthen collaboration on climate action and maritime security, including Kenya’s participation in the Yokohama Green Expo 2027.
Mudavadi congratulated Japan on the election of Sanae Takaichi as the country’s first female Prime Minister, describing it as a significant milestone in inclusive leadership.
Motegi reaffirmed Japan’s commitment to strengthening ties with Kenya.
“Kenya is an important partner for Japan in Africa. We are committed to deepening our cooperation in trade, investment, and development,” he said.
Kenya and Japan have maintained diplomatic relations for over six decades, with their partnership anchored on development cooperation, trade, and strong people-to-people ties.
Both sides concluded the meeting with a commitment to deepen practical cooperation aimed at delivering tangible economic and development outcomes.
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