Kenya, US Reaffirm Strong Bilateral Ties During High-Level Talks at State House
Welcomed the US Government’s renewal of AGOA, which had expired in 2025, for another three years.
President William Samoei Rutto Met United States Deputy Secretary of State Christopher Landau Photo/Courtesy
By Ruth Sang
The United States and Kenya have confirmed their sustained diplomatic, economic, and security alliance through the State House meeting between Kenyan leaders and US Deputy Secretary of State Christopher Landau in Nairobi. Mr Landau is visiting the country for two days to strengthen bilateral ties and solve important regional and global issues that both countries share.
The two parties during the meeting evaluated various matters related to their bilateral relationship and regional issues, which demonstrated their dedication to developing cooperation through shared understanding and mutual interests. Kenyan officials confirmed that relations between Nairobi and Washington remain excellent, citing their long-standing collaboration in health, trade, security, and development projects.
The discussions focused on the Kenya–US Health Cooperation Framework, which the two countries signed last year for KSh208 billion. The agreement represents the first global instance that uses the America First Global Health Strategy according to its framework. The leaders presented the framework as a historic government-to-government deal that enhances the execution of Kenya’s universal healthcare program through direct government delivery methods.
The two countries approached their trade relationship through a discussion which revealed that both sides received equal benefits from their existing trade framework. In 2024, Kenya exported goods worth $737 million to the United States, while imports from the US into Kenya stood at $771 million. The officials mentioned that the existing balance between the two markets creates numerous chances for both sectors to expand and develop business activities.
The African Growth and Opportunity Act (AGOA) enabled thousands of African products to enter the US market without any duty or quota restrictions, which led to increased trade between the two regions. Kenya supported the US government decision to extend AGOA for another three years after its 2025 expiration date.
Both countries at the bilateral level confirmed ongoing discussions toward a comprehensive trade agreement. The negotiations between the two sides have already reached major progress because the current discussions center on tariff reductions and digital trade and investment facilitation.
The United States has provided support to Kenya through its regional peacebuilding efforts, which includes backing the development of the Kenyan-led Multinational Security Support mission transition into a Gang Suppression Force. The deal includes the delivery of vital equipment and vehicles.
The leaders established a need to reassess counterterrorism operations in Somalia after twenty years of ongoing work together. The discussions included assessment of how the civil war in Sudan has destroyed the country and created a humanitarian crisis that endangers millions of people.
Kenya confirmed its willingness to deliver logistical support for humanitarian operations which involve transporting food and medical supplies and other vital assistance to people who need help.
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