Kenya and the Netherlands have solidified their bilateral relations by signing three memoranda of understanding (MOUs) and a Letter of Intent aimed at boosting trade between the two nations. These agreements were formalized at State House, Nairobi, marking the commencement of a three-day State Visit by King Willem-Alexander and Queen Máxima of the Netherlands to Kenya.
During a joint press briefing, President William Ruto emphasized the alignment of Kenya’s Vision 2030 with the Netherlands’ expertise in sustainable agriculture, water management, and renewable energy.
“The Netherlands’ global leadership in sustainable agriculture, water management, and renewable energy aligns seamlessly with Kenya’s Vision 2030,” said President Ruto.
King Willem-Alexander highlighted the deep-rooted diplomatic ties between Kenya and the Netherlands, which have flourished for over six decades.
“We attach great value to our cooperation with Kenya. This visit shows how our interests are aligned and how close our ties have become,” he stated.
The signing ceremony was attended by Deputy President Kithure Kindiki, Prime Cabinet Secretary and Cabinet Secretary for Foreign Affairs Musalia Mudavadi, other Cabinet Secretaries, Principal Secretaries, and key stakeholders.
Read also: Leveraging Public-Private Partnerships for enhanced sustainability Outcomes in Africa
The signed MOUs include the establishment of a Joint Trade Committee to enhance bilateral trade, the Terms of Reference for an Agriculture Working Group to advance agricultural collaboration, and an agreement to foster tourism by encouraging Dutch tourists to visit Kenya and promoting Dutch investment in Kenya’s tourism sector.
Additionally, the Letter of Intent from the Dutch company Invest International outlines plans to fund two critical water projects—the Naivasha Special Economic Zone Water Supply and Sanitation Project and the Sabaki Bulk Water Supply Project—at a combined cost of €3 million (KSh423 million).
“These projects will enhance access to clean and reliable water, a fundamental pillar for sustainable development and economic progress,” noted President Ruto.
He also welcomed the entry of Invest Africa, a Dutch investment entity, into the Kenyan market, citing its potential to inject significant capital into Kenya’s private sector.
To further strengthen diplomatic and strategic relations, the two leaders instructed their foreign ministers to convene political consultations on Wednesday. These discussions will focus on regional peace and security, climate change, multilateral engagement, and strategic development partnerships.
“At a time of fraying partnerships, I urged their Majesties to maintain the commitments of the Netherlands to the principles of global solidarity and subsidiarity,” said President Ruto.
King Willem-Alexander and Queen Máxima have a packed schedule during their visit. They are set to engage with young Kenyans to discuss their aspirations and future opportunities.
“This will be a wonderful opportunity to meet Kenyans from different backgrounds and foster even closer ties between our two countries,” the King remarked.
A key highlight of their visit will be the launch of a direct cold-chain corridor from Kenya to Rotterdam at the Inland Container Depot in Naivasha, a game-changing initiative for the transportation of perishable goods.
The royal couple will also visit the Supreme Court and participate in the Kenya-Dutch Business Forum, engaging with business leaders to explore further collaboration opportunities.
“I am confident that these engagements will provide Your Majesties with valuable insights into Kenya’s progress and opportunities for further collaboration,” President Ruto concluded.
This visit marks a significant milestone in Kenya-Netherlands relations, reinforcing economic and diplomatic ties while laying the foundation for enhanced cooperation in key sectors.
