On 22nd June 2012, the first Korean Air aircraft touched down Jomo Kenyatta International Airport. The arrival of Korean Airlines in Kenya opened a new chapter in the relationship between the two countries.
Kenya and Korea have had diplomatic relations since 1964 but the potential of these relations have not been fully tapped partly due to geographical distance.
Korea is now coming closer to Kenya as a partner because of Korean Airlines.
The entry of Korean Airlines to Kenya has implications beyond commerce. The immediate beneficiary of this venture is Kenya’s tourism industry, with many Koreans seeking to tour places like Maasai Mara and Amboseli National Parks.
Many global Korean companies have also expressed interest to set up their regional branches here in Kenya to add to the already existing ones like Samsung, LG, Hyundai etc. Indeed effects of Korean Airlines are already being felt.
Two months ago, Korean Prime Minister Kim Hwang-Sik visited Kenya in the culmination of new bilateral agreements.
Against this backdrop, I am happy to note that University of Nairobi will launch a fully-fledged Korean Studies department early next year.
This initiative will familiarise Kenya and Korea; thereby deepen the friendly relationship of both countries.
As a Korean Ambassador to Kenya for almost one and-a-half years now, I have always thought of how to create more win-win co-operation between both countries.
Korea is not a big country, but it possesses accumulated expertise which can be shared with Kenya.
Konza City project
If asked to provide the secrets of Korean success stories, I can mention: Visionary leadership, Select and Focus Approach in Industry and Empowerment of people instilling “can-do” spirit.
In the practical field, there are many areas of co-operation for Kenya and Korea. First and foremost is Science and Technology, which is the basis for industrialisation.
Korea’s development in science and technology as illustrated in establishment of Korea Institute of Science and Technology (KIST) in 1966 and the Daeduk research complex in Daejon city can be benchmarked by Kenya’s institutions.
Secondly, ICT is another promising area for co-operation between the two countries since Korea is the number one country in ICT technology as pointed out by OECD reports. ICT is an essential tool that will enable Kenya leapfrog towards a higher level of development.
Thirdly, Kenya has potential for renewable energy from geothermal, wind and solar resources. Korea is very much advanced in renewable energy technology and its use.
This area is a major showcase in Korea’s green growth initiative which harmonises the socio-economic development with environmental sustainability.
Fourth, the most advanced technology of managing water resources is highlighted in Korea’s Four Major Rivers Restoration Project that is near completion through investment of around US$17.3 billion.
Korea can share its experience and technology for Kenya’s water management.
Kenya is undertaking the LAPSSET and Konza City national flagship projects. It is my earnest hope that Korea can contribute by participating in the implementation of the projects as these will revitalise the marginalised areas into the mainstream and also help connect Kenya and her neighbours more.
Now, Korea intends to pursue a “Korean Route” that has not been travelled before.
Key challenge
This new route calls for values that are different from those of the previous development history; it requires creativity, innovation and flexibility that can see through the future. I am confident Korea, through collaboration with friends and partners, will rise to this challenge.
Kenya’s general elections in March next year will be a key challenge into Kenya’s next stage of development, especially towards the goal of Vision 2030. I wish Kenya a smooth transition through free, fair and peaceful elections.
As an Ambassador of Kenya, I dream of a partnership where Kenya will walk hand in hand with Korea in the spirit of “Twende Pamoja”.
Writer is Ambassador of the Republic of Korea to Kenya.
