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Kenyan President Ruto in Berlin: Cooperation with Kenya Can Be a Role Model

Berlin – "The visit of President William Ruto underscores Kenya's importance as a strategic partner for Germany in Africa," says Christoph Kannengießer, CEO of the German-African Business Association Afrika-Verein. "Kenya is one of the most important economies in sub-Saharan Africa and offers excellent investment opportunities for German companies. The recently enacted Economic Partnership Agreement (EPA) with the EU highlights Kenya's enormous strategic importance. Together with the migration agreement to be signed on Friday, it will elevate the bilateral relationship to a new level. The German-Kenyan cooperation can indeed serve as a model for relations with other major African economies."

"The migration agreement presents enormous opportunities for both sides, as it addresses Germany’s skilled labour shortage while helping Kenya combat high unemployment. Improved access for Kenyan professionals to the German job market creates a win-win situation, something Afrika-Verein has advocated for years. This also leads to additional networks and connections that benefit trade and investment activities. The German government should pursue similar agreements with other African countries. Moreover, there should be increased support for training and education programs as well as practical partnerships between local universities and German companies, and between African and German institutions," Kannengießer explains.

"Kenya is known for its stable, open, and liberal economy, which thrives particularly in the fields of energy, consumer goods, tourism, and financial services. The country generates 90 percent of its electricity from renewable sources and is a leader in sustainability. Beyond the energy sector, Kenya remains Germany’s key economic partner in East Africa. In recent years, the country has established itself as a leading centre for innovation and start-ups. Kenya's growing start-up scene, the so-called ‘Silicon Savannah’, is a remarkable example of the country's entrepreneurial spirit and innovative strength. German companies have the opportunity to engage in one of Africa's most exciting markets," Kannengießer continues.

During his visit, President Ruto will also participate as a guest of honor at the citizens' festival hosted by the German President at Bellevue Palace, further highlighting the close partnership between the two nations.

Background:
With a GDP growth of 5.6 percent in 2023, Kenya is one of the fastest-growing economies in Africa. For German companies, Kenya remains one of the top five export markets in sub-Saharan Africa, with a trade volume of 260 million euros in 2022.