NAIROBI, Kenya- Trade between Kenya and the UK reached a historic high last year, surpassing the GBP 2 billion (Sh340 billion) mark for the first time, underscoring the growing depth of economic ties between the two countries.
The milestone was announced on January 22, 2026, during the inaugural UK–Kenya Business Forum held in Nairobi, which brought together senior government officials and more than 180 business leaders from both countries to advance what officials described as a modern and forward-looking economic partnership.
The forum comes just months after the renewal of the Kenya–UK Strategic Partnership in July 2025, which set an ambitious target of doubling bilateral trade volumes by 2030.
UK Unveils Climate Finance Accelerator for Kenyan Green Businesses
Coinciding with the trade milestone, the UK formally launched the Climate Finance Accelerator (CFA) Kenya, a programme aimed at supporting Kenyan low-carbon and climate-focused businesses to attract investment.
Under the initiative, Kenyan companies can submit applications between January 22 and March 11, 2026, with successful projects receiving three to four months of technical and financial advisory support.
The selected businesses will then pitch to potential investors in October 2026, positioning them for scale-up and commercial deployment.
Globally, the CFA programme has supported over 200 projects, helping them secure nearly USD 500 million in climate-related financing, highlighting its role as a key driver of sustainable investment.
SMEs, Digital Trade and Inclusive Growth in Focus
The forum also provided a platform for frank discussions on reforms required to unlock greater British investment into Kenya.
Expert-led panels spotlighted opportunities in digital trade, green manufacturing, and technology-enabled services, with a strong emphasis on small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs)—particularly those led by women and youth.
Participants also showcased emerging sustainable partnerships, including a collaboration between Scottish firm Scotmas and Kenya’s Winnies Pure Health, which is focused on improving biosecurity and water hygiene solutions for local agricultural producers.
Through B2B matchmaking sessions and a growing shift toward high-tech and digital services, the forum signalled a broader transformation of Kenya–UK relations—from traditional trade to a resilient, innovation-driven economic alliance.
