President William Ruto has intensified Kenya’s push for deeper economic ties with the European Union after holding talks with European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen aimed at unlocking jobs, investment and new export opportunities for Kenyans.
The discussions, held on the sidelines of the G7 Summit, focused on accelerating the implementation of the Kenya-European Union Economic Partnership Agreement (EPA), a deal expected to expand market access for Kenyan products and attract more foreign investment into the country.
Prime Cabinet Secretary and Foreign Affairs Cabinet Secretary Musalia Mudavadi said the talks reflected the growing strength of relations between Kenya and the EU.
“Strong partnerships are built on shared interests, mutual respect and a common vision for the future. That is the foundation upon which Kenya and the European Union continue to deepen their relationship,” Mudavadi said.
Mudavadi noted that a key area of focus was speeding up the implementation of the Kenya-EU Economic Partnership Agreement to boost exports, expand trade and create employment opportunities.
“A key area of focus was accelerating the implementation of the Kenya-EU Economic Partnership Agreement to expand market access, boost exports, attract quality investment and create jobs for Kenyans,” he said.
The leaders also discussed Kenya’s efforts to secure an EU Adequacy Decision, a move that would allow secure cross-border data transfers between Kenya and Europe and strengthen the country’s ambition of becoming Africa’s leading digital and innovation hub.
“We also discussed advancing Kenya’s journey towards securing an EU Adequacy Decision, a move that would strengthen our position as Africa’s leading digital and innovation hub by enabling secure and seamless cross-border data flows,” Mudavadi added.
The talks further explored opportunities under the EU’s Global Gateway strategy, which seeks to mobilise investment in infrastructure, clean energy, transport networks and digital connectivity.
According to Mudavadi, the discussions are part of Kenya’s broader strategy to leverage international partnerships to drive economic growth and position the country as a preferred destination for investment and innovation.
“These engagements demonstrate the value of Kenya’s growing diplomatic capital. Through strong international relationships and strategic partnerships, Kenya is increasingly shaping economic conversations that matter, attracting opportunities that drive growth, expand markets and deliver tangible benefits for citizens,” he said.
Mudavadi emphasized that Kenya’s long-term goal is to become a competitive production, innovation and investment hub serving Africa, Europe and global markets.
“Our vision is clear: position Kenya as a competitive production, innovation and investment destination that serves Africa, Europe and the wider global marketplace,” he stated.
