The United States has once again confirmed its strong and long-standing partnership with Kenya, with a major focus on trade, investment, and wider strategic cooperation between the two countries.
This assurance followed high-level talks between President William Ruto and U.S. Deputy Secretary of State Christopher Landau, who paid a courtesy call to State House, Nairobi, on Thursday, January 29, during his two-day official visit to Kenya.
During the meeting, the two leaders held in-depth discussions on the current state of Kenya–U.S. relations, particularly in the area of trade. President Ruto emphasized that Kenya remains fully committed to deepening its ties with the United States, describing the relationship as one built on mutual respect, shared values, and common economic and security interests.
In a statement after the meeting, President Ruto said he was pleased with the direction of bilateral cooperation, noting that trade between the two countries continues to be balanced and beneficial to both sides.
He explained that the existing trade relationship gives the private sector in both Kenya and the U.S. many opportunities to invest, grow, and create jobs.
Trade figures shared during the meeting showed that in 2024, Kenya exported goods worth more than KSh 95 billion to the United States.
In the same period, the U.S. exported goods valued at approximately KSh 99 billion to Kenya. According to the leaders, these figures demonstrate a relatively balanced trade relationship that supports businesses and industries in both countries.
President Ruto also welcomed the renewal of the African Growth and Opportunity Act (AGOA) for an additional three years beyond its 2025 expiry date.
He praised the programme for playing a key role in giving Kenyan products duty-free and quota-free access to the U.S. market. Ruto noted that AGOA has helped boost exports, especially in sectors such as manufacturing, agriculture, and textiles, while also supporting thousands of jobs in Kenya.
In addition, Kenya and the United States are continuing discussions on a broader and more comprehensive trade agreement. Talks are reportedly focusing on reducing tariffs, setting clear rules for digital trade, and improving investment conditions.
President Ruto said such an agreement could unlock new opportunities for Kenyan manufacturers, farmers, and technology companies, while also making Kenya a more attractive destination for American investors.
Beyond trade matters, the leaders also discussed health cooperation between the two nations. Of particular focus was the KSh 208 billion Kenya–U.S. Health Cooperation Framework under the America First Global Health Strategy.
President Ruto explained that a new government-to-government agreement is expected to strengthen Kenya’s universal healthcare programme by allowing funds and support to flow directly to the government, rather than through traditional NGO channels.
Security and regional stability were also key topics during the meeting. President Ruto thanked the United States for its continued support in transforming the Kenyan-led Multinational Security Support mission in Haiti into a stronger and more effective Gang Suppression Force. This support includes the provision of equipment, vehicles, and other logistical assistance.
The two leaders further exchanged views on counterterrorism efforts in Somalia. Deputy Secretary Landau highlighted the need to review and rethink long-standing approaches to fighting terrorism and violent extremism, especially after more than 20 years of ongoing conflict in the region.
Discussions also touched on the civil war in Sudan, which has caused a major humanitarian crisis and left millions of people in urgent need of food, clean water, and medical care.
Kenya reaffirmed its willingness to support humanitarian efforts by offering logistical assistance where possible.
Overall, the meeting was seen as an important step in strengthening Kenya–U.S. relations. For Kenya, it opens doors to expanded exports, possible tariff reductions, and continued access to the U.S. market through AGOA.
For the United States, Kenya is viewed as a dependable strategic partner in Africa, both economically and in matters of regional and global security.
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