NAIROBI, Kenya – Kenya and the Netherlands have taken a significant step to deepen their trade and diplomatic relations, signing three Memoranda of Understanding (MoUs) and a Letter of Intent aimed at boosting key sectors, including agriculture, water management, and tourism.
The agreements were signed at State House, Nairobi, at the start of a three-day State Visit by King Willem-Alexander and Queen Máxima of the Netherlands.
The visit underscores the long-standing partnership between the two nations, which spans over six decades.
During a joint press briefing, President William Ruto lauded the Netherlands’ global leadership in sustainable agriculture, water management, and renewable energy, noting that it aligns with Kenya’s Vision 2030 development blueprint.
“The Netherlands’ expertise in these areas provides a strong foundation for mutually beneficial cooperation,” Ruto said.
King Willem-Alexander echoed this sentiment, emphasizing the deep and growing ties between the two countries.
“We attach great value to our cooperation with Kenya. This visit highlights our aligned interests and the strength of our partnership,” he said.
The signed MoUs focus on three critical areas:
- Trade and Investment: Establishment of a Joint Trade Committee to facilitate bilateral trade.
- Agriculture: A framework for enhanced collaboration in the agricultural sector through the Terms of Reference Agriculture Working Group.
- Tourism: Promotion of Kenya as a prime destination for Dutch tourists and increased Dutch investment in Kenya’s tourism sector.
Additionally, the Letter of Intent, signed by Dutch company Invest International, commits €3 million (Sh423 million) to fund two major water projects—the Naivasha Special Economic Zone Water Supply and Sanitation Project and the Sabaki Bulk Water Supply Project.
“These projects will enhance access to clean and reliable water, a fundamental pillar for sustainable development and economic progress,” President Ruto stated.
The Head of State also welcomed the entry of Invest Africa, a Dutch investment firm, into the Kenyan market, saying it would provide much-needed capital for private sector growth.
Beyond trade, the leaders directed their respective Foreign Affairs ministries to convene political consultations to define a clear framework for cooperation on regional peace and security, climate change, and strategic development partnerships.
“At a time of fraying global partnerships, I urged Their Majesties to maintain the Netherlands’ commitment to the principles of global solidarity,” Ruto said.
The royal visit features a packed itinerary, including engagements with young Kenyans, business leaders, and government officials.
Notably, the King and Queen will visit the Inland Container Depot in Naivasha, where they will launch a direct cold-chain corridor from Kenya to Rotterdam—an initiative set to revolutionize the export of perishable goods.
The delegation will also visit the Supreme Court and participate in the Kenya-Dutch Business Forum, aimed at fostering stronger trade and investment linkages.
𝗞𝗘𝗡𝗬𝗔 𝗔𝗡𝗗 𝗧𝗛𝗘 𝗡𝗘𝗧𝗛𝗘𝗥𝗟𝗔𝗡𝗗𝗦 𝗦𝗜𝗚𝗡 𝗧𝗛𝗥𝗘𝗘 𝗠𝗼𝗨𝘀 𝗧𝗢 𝗦𝗧𝗥𝗘𝗡𝗚𝗧𝗛𝗘𝗡 𝗧𝗜𝗘𝗦Kenya and the Netherlands have signed three memoranda of understanding and a Letter of Intent that will boost trade between the two countries.The agreements were…
