Author: Kissinger Karanu

The Kenya Investment Authority (KenInvest) hosted a high-level delegation from Singapore’s Ministry of Trade and Industry, led by Mr. Adrian Ng, Chief Negotiator for the proposed East African Community–Singapore Free Trade Agreement (EAC–Singapore FTA). The visit marks a significant step in Singapore’s broader engagement with East African countries as it prepares to negotiate a landmark trade deal with the EAC. If concluded, the EAC–Singapore FTA would be the first of its kind between the regional bloc and an Asian country—unlocking new opportunities for trade, investment, and shared economic growth. Discussions centered on fostering a mutually beneficial agreement, drawing insights from Kenya’s experience with the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA), and identifying key areas for bilateral cooperation. “Kenya’s strategic role as a gateway to Africa, combined with Singapore’s position as a hub for Asia, provides a strong foundation for enhanced cross-continental collaboration,” said KenInvest officials. “We are optimistic about deepening this engagement and welcoming increased Singaporean investment into Kenya.” The dialogue reflects Kenya’s commitment to forging innovative global partnerships that promote economic transformation and regional integration.

During a high-profile investor session held alongside his State Visit to China, President William Ruto reaffirmed the strong bilateral relationship between Kenya and China, emphasizing Kenya’s role as the gateway to Africa for international investors. The President underlined Kenya’s abundant, well-educated, and digitally savvy human capital, presenting it as a major advantage for Chinese investors seeking to expand into Africa’s growing markets. He assured attendees that Kenya, through the Ministry of Investments, Trade and Industry, would maintain active engagement with Chinese investors, aiming to attract even greater investment into East Africa’s largest economy — a status reaffirmed by the latest International Monetary Fund (IMF) report. In his address, President Ruto extended an official invitation to Chinese investors to participate in the upcoming Kenya International Investment Conference, scheduled for the first quarter of 2026. He noted that over 400 Chinese investors are already operating successfully in Kenya, showcasing the country’s established and welcoming business environment.

Beijing, China –As part of the Kenya-China Investor Roundtable, a dedicated side event was held to spotlight a wide range of investment opportunities available across Kenya’s key economic subsectors. Presentations focused on high-potential areas including Manufacturing, ICT and Business Process Outsourcing (BPO), Construction and Building, Pharmaceuticals, Textile and Apparel, Hygiene and Healthcare, Energy, Agricultural Value Chains, and Hospitality and Tourism. The session provided Chinese investors with an in-depth look at Kenya’s dynamic and diverse economy, underscoring the country’s strategic focus on sectoral growth to drive sustainable development. These sectors offer significant opportunities for value addition, innovation, and export growth, further positioning Kenya as a top investment hub in Africa.