By Debra Rono
President William Ruto today hosted a delegation of US Congress members, led by Congressman Vern Buchanan, to State House Nairobi.
This visit highlights the growing bond between Kenya and the United States as both countries negotiate for a Strategic Trade and Investment Partnership.
The objective of this partnership is to enhance the bilateral relationship and foster deeper economic and strategic cooperation.
One of the key discussion topics was the African Growth Opportunity Act (AGOA). Introduced 25 years ago, AGOA has played a crucial role in providing a significant market for African finished products in the United States.
However, with its expiration in February, President Ruto emphasized the urgent need for an extension.
“The African Growth Opportunity Act (AGOA), which was introduced 25 years ago and is set to expire next February, has provided a huge market for African finished products. Kenya has therefore been urging the US Congress to extend AGOA because it is beneficial to our two countries,” read the post on X in part.
Recognizing the mutual benefits of AGOA, Kenya has actively tried to convince the US Congress to extend this vital act.
The extension of AGOA is not only essential for maintaining existing trade and market access between Africa and the United States but also for expanding these opportunities.
Increased trade contributes significantly to the economic growth and development of both regions.
The ongoing negotiations for a Strategic Trade and Investment Partnership, along with the efforts to extend AGOA, demonstrate a shared commitment to enhancing economic ties and promoting mutual prosperity.
As Kenya and the United States continue to strengthen their relationship, both nations can look forward to promising futures with expanded trade opportunities and deeper economic collaboration.
President William Ruto in May made a state visit to the United States where a series of new multibillion-shilling investment agreements were signed for Nairobi as the two nations celebrated 60 years of partnership. The investment deals, unveiled during President Ruto’s concluding day of his four-day state visit, primarily centred on green energy, security, education, and governance.