WASHINGTON, D.C — Kenya has stepped up efforts to secure long-term trade and investment ties with the United States, as a high-level delegation from Nairobi begins a three-day working tour in Washington.
The team, led by Cabinet Secretary for Investments, Trade and Industry Lee Kinyanjui and Principal Secretary for Trade Regina Ombam, is holding talks with senior U.S. officials and top executives from the American private sector under the auspices of the U.S. Chamber of Commerce.
At the heart of the discussions is Kenya’s future access to the U.S. market beyond the expiry of the African Growth and Opportunity Act (AGOA) in 2025, as well as addressing tariff barriers that continue to affect key Kenyan exports.
“Interest from U.S. companies in Kenya continues to grow, reflecting confidence in Kenya’s economy as a strategic gateway to Africa,” the Ministry said in a statement.
Currently in the U.S. for strategic trade engagements aimed at strengthening Kenya–U.S. investment relations and securing new opportunities for our exporters. @MITIKenya @Trade_Kenya
The visit comes at a critical moment for Kenya’s export sector, with horticulture, textiles and apparel among industries keenly watching the outcome of the talks.
AGOA, which has allowed duty-free access for African goods into the U.S. for more than two decades, has been a lifeline for Kenyan exporters.
Analysts say that while Washington has signaled openness to exploring a new bilateral framework with Nairobi, Kenya is seeking more certainty and predictability for its exporters.
Kenya and the United States have long enjoyed strong diplomatic and economic ties, with trade between the two countries valued at more than $1.2 billion annually.
The government hopes this latest round of negotiations will pave the way for deeper collaboration and create new opportunities for U.S. investors eyeing Africa’s fast-growing markets.
“This visit provides an important opportunity to deepen those ties while creating new pathways for business and investment on both sides,” said Kinyanjui.
