Kenya and Qatar have reaffirmed their commitment to enhancing bilateral relations by expanding cooperation in key areas such as trade, investment, labour, tourism, education, food security, and aviation.
The agreement emerged from the second round of bilateral political consultations held in Doha on August 11, 2026. The talks were led by Kenya’s Foreign Affairs Principal Secretary Korir Sing’Oei and Qatar’s Secretary-General of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Dr Ahmad Hassen Al-Hammadi.
During the discussions, both countries reviewed ways to deepen collaboration and exchanged views on regional and international issues of mutual interest. They agreed to institutionalise annual consultations to regularly assess agreements, address emerging challenges, and strengthen diplomatic engagement.
Key Areas of Cooperation
- Trade and Investment: Kenya invited Qatar to increase investments in renewable energy, agriculture, infrastructure, logistics, tourism, and Special Economic Zones.
- Green Investment Fund: Qatar was encouraged to participate in Kenya’s $200 million Green Investment Fund aimed at promoting sustainable development.
- Labour Mobility: Both parties agreed to expedite talks on updating the 2012 Bilateral Labour Agreement and explore new avenues for skilled manpower recruitment. Over 70,000 Kenyans currently live and work in Qatar.
- Meat Exports: Kenya requested a review of restrictions on Kenyan meat exports, with technical teams set to continue discussions.
- Civil Aviation and Transport: The countries committed to enhancing cooperation to boost air connectivity, cargo transport, and support for trade and tourism.
The joint statement highlighted the progress in bilateral relations and the shared goal of broadening their partnership. The next round of consultations is scheduled to take place in Nairobi in 2027.
