Kenya has reaffirmed its commitment to strengthening ties with Japan as the two countries seek deeper cooperation in trade, investment and development.
Prime Cabinet Secretary and Cabinet Secretary for Foreign and Diaspora Affairs Musalia Mudavadi said Kenya values its long-standing partnership with Japan, describing the Asian nation as a reliable development partner that has contributed to key sectors of the economy.
Mudavadi spoke while hosting a visiting Japanese delegation led by Japan’s Foreign Minister Motegi Toshimitsu.
According to Mudavadi, the discussions focused on the progress made in Kenya-Japan relations and possible new areas of cooperation.
“Japan is Kenya’s key and dependable development partner. Kenya attaches great importance to its partnership with Japan, which has continued to deliver tangible results across critical sectors of our economy,” he said.
The Prime Cabinet Secretary noted that the talks came at a time when the world is facing economic and geopolitical uncertainty, making stronger international partnerships more important.
“We are operating in an increasingly volatile global environment, and it is important that we continue to strengthen strategic partnerships such as this one,” said Mudavadi.
On trade, Mudavadi said Kenya is seeking a more balanced relationship with Japan, pointing out that Kenyan exports to the Asian country are still lower than imports.
“There is a need to expand market access for Kenyan products and create a more balanced and mutually beneficial trade relationship,” he said.
He also urged Japanese companies to explore investment opportunities in Kenya, especially under Public-Private Partnerships and ongoing economic reforms.
“Kenya remains open and ready for investment. We welcome deeper Japanese participation in our development agenda,” he said.
Mudavadi further revealed that Kenya and Japan are discussing new financing arrangements, including the proposed Samurai loan structure and support for infrastructure projects such as Phase II of the Mombasa Special Economic Zone.
“These financing discussions are critical in supporting priority national projects and strengthening economic resilience,” he said.
On regional security, Mudavadi welcomed Japan’s continued support in maritime security and capacity building, saying the cooperation is important in promoting stability and easing trade in the region.
