Kenya, UK renew strategic pact to boost trade, jobs and security

President William Ruto and Prime Minister Keir Starmer. [PCS]

Kenya and the United Kingdom have renewed their Strategic Partnership in a deal expected to unlock major investments, enhance bilateral trade, and strengthen cooperation in key areas such as climate action, security, and digital innovation.

President William Ruto, who is on an official visit to the UK, held talks with newly elected British Prime Minister Keir Starmer, culminating in the reaffirmation of the Kenya-UK Strategic Partnership 2025-2030.

"We have renewed the Kenya-UK Strategic Partnership, effectively setting the right tempo for more trade, investment, and green growth," President Ruto announced via his official X account.

He said the agreement will support Kenya's development goals, particularly in climate resilience, ICT growth, and regional peace and security.

The Head of State also revealed that the two countries aim to double bilateral trade over the next five years.

"We are confident the cooperation will deliver a tangible economic impact to our people," he stated.

According to State House Spokesperson Hussein Mohamed, the renewed partnership is anchored on four pillars: trade, climate, technology, and security.

He said it will promote digital skills training among Kenyans, enhance cooperation on cybersecurity, terrorism, and regional stability, and support climate adaptation efforts.

However, the visit comes amid criticism from some quarters. A U.S.-based academic, Prof. Peter Ndiang'ui, wrote to Prime Minister Starmer urging him to reconsider hosting President Ruto, citing recent deadly crackdowns on anti-government protests in Kenya.

In the letter dated June 29, Prof. Ndiang'ui condemned what he termed as "extrajudicial slaughter of unarmed civilians" in Kenya, arguing that engaging President Ruto at this moment undermines democratic values.

"The UK's decision to host President William Samoei Ruto at this profound dark moment in his nation's history is ill-considered, an appalling affront to the people of Kenya, and a glaring contradiction of Britain's professed democratic values," the letter read.