The business mission in Kenya, aimed at showcasing Czech environmental and sustainable solutions, was inaugurated with enthusiastic remarks from various dignitaries including KNCCI CEO Ahmed Farah HSC, Lina Vedula – Czech Chamber of Commerce, Lee Kinyanjui – Kenya’s Cabinet Secretary for Investments Trade and Industry,Peter Baldy – Czech Minister for Environment, and PS Abubakar Hassan Abubakar, CBS – Kenya’s Principal Secretary for Investment Promotion. The occasion highlighted Kenya’s strategic position as a gateway to Africa with a growing economy and a focus on green transition initiatives.

KNCCI alongside the Czech counterpart, played pivotal roles in facilitating business partnerships and exploring investment opportunities. The speakers emphasized the need to reduce bureaucratic hurdles and leverage existing trade agreements to boost bilateral trade, currently standing at approximately $835,000 in 2023 from Kenya to the Czech Republic, with significant potential for growth in sectors like agriculture, manufacturing, and services.

Economic Opportunities and Market Access: The Czech Minister for Investment, Trade and Industry detailed ongoing investment activities and support mechanisms for Czech companies in Kenya, including the facilitation of Czech firms at one-stop centers and coordination of business delegations. He also highlighted Kenya’s ambitious agricultural and industrial development initiatives, such as the County Aggregation and Industrial Pact, and the establishment of special economic zones offering tax incentives and cost reductions for export-oriented companies. The minister underscored Kenya’s access to over 200 million people through regional frameworks like the East African Community and the African Continental Free Trade Area, positioning Kenya as a strategic hub for Czech companies looking to expand into the African market. The discussion also touched on Kenya’s tourism sector and its potential to attract Czech investment and collaboration in smart systems and innovative projects.

Agreements and Future Collaborations: The event culminated in the signing of an agreement between the Czech and Kenyan Chambers of Commerce, symbolizing a commitment to fostering trade and investment ties. Katya Zech-Naganya from Chechnya highlighted potential areas of collaboration, including smart systems, innovative projects, waste and water management, and the transfer of know-how. The Czech companies present expressed interest in leveraging Kenya’s market and resources, while Kenyan businesses sought to benefit from Czech expertise and technology. The signing was witnessed by key officials from both countries, marking a significant step forward in bilateral economic relations.