BUDAPEST, Hungary – Kenya and Hungary have inked two key agreements aimed at deepening cooperation in education and agriculture, marking a new chapter in their six-decade-long diplomatic relationship.
Prime Cabinet Secretary Musalia Mudavadi announced the signing of the Memoranda of Understanding (MoUs) during a meeting in Budapest with Hungary’s Minister of Foreign Affairs and Trade, Péter Szijjártó.
The agreements are expected to enhance bilateral collaboration and pave the way for further economic and diplomatic engagements.
Hungary reaffirmed its commitment to supporting Kenyan students through its Stipendium Hungaricum Programme, which offers 200 scholarships annually.
Mudavadi lauded the initiative, stating that it has significantly contributed to strengthening people-to-people ties and fostering skills development across various sectors.
On agriculture, the two nations agreed to enhance the exchange of expertise and modern farming techniques.
Hungary has already established a demonstration farm in Kenya, showcasing its agricultural technology and innovations.
The initiative aims to boost productivity and promote sustainable farming practices.
Mudavadi expressed confidence that these partnerships would attract more foreign direct investments, particularly in agricultural value addition.
To solidify these growing ties, Kenya is preparing to open an embassy in Budapest.
Mudavadi confirmed that President William Ruto’s administration has approved the plan, with implementation awaiting budgetary allocation.
“Hungary was among the first countries to establish a diplomatic mission in Nairobi after Kenya’s independence. Now, we are taking steps to reciprocate by opening our own mission in Budapest,” he said.
I signed two key Memoranda of Understanding on behalf of Kenya with the Hungarian government, one in Education and another in Agriculture, strengthening our bilateral ties and creating new opportunities for collaboration and growth. Hungary remains a valued partner, especially…
Beyond education and agriculture, the discussions covered nuclear energy, trade, and ICT.
The two nations agreed to strengthen cooperation in the peaceful use of nuclear energy, particularly in training and education.
In trade, Kenya and Hungary committed to accelerating negotiations on investment protection and the avoidance of double taxation.
Plans are also underway to hold the next session of the Joint Trade and Economic Committee (JTEC) before the end of the year.
The ICT sector was another key area of focus, with both countries looking to expand collaboration in business, finance, and cloud computing.
On the global stage, Kenya and Hungary pledged to work together within the United Nations framework to push for a fairer international financial system, promote inclusivity, and advance sustainable development goals (SDGs).
Szijjártó also emphasized the need for diplomatic solutions to conflicts affecting various regions, underscoring Hungary and Kenya’s shared commitment to peace and stability.
