Ruto, King Willem-Alexander ink key deals to boost Kenya-Netherlands relations
The Kenya-Dutch Business Forum was launched, offering a platform for Dutch investors to engage with young Kenyan entrepreneurs and business leaders.
In a bid to strengthen bilateral ties, Kenya and the Netherlands have signed three Memoranda of Understanding (MoUs) aimed at boosting trade, agriculture, and tourism.
This comes as part of a continued effort to deepen their diplomatic and economic relations during the ongoing State Visit of King Willem-Alexander and Queen Máxima of the Netherlands.
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Speaking at a joint press conference at State House in Nairobi on Tuesday, President William Ruto said the MoUs, marked a new phase in the relationship between the two nations.
He highlighted that the agreements would foster stronger diplomatic connections and unlock new economic opportunities.
“As we embark on the next phase of Kenya-Netherlands relations, we reaffirm our commitment to strengthening our bilateral ties,” Ruto said.
“This engagement will deepen diplomatic relations, expand economic opportunities, and foster sustainable partnerships.”
The MoUs signed include one focused on trade and investment, establishing a framework for dialogue and cooperation between the two countries.
This agreement will pave the way for a more structured and dynamic engagement between their business communities.
“We are committed to fostering a more structured and dynamic engagement between our business communities, which will unlock new opportunities in key sectors,” Ruto said.
In addition, the two nations renewed their collaboration in agriculture. The renewed partnership seeks to boost agricultural productivity and food security while enhancing technological exchange and market access.
“By renewing our cooperation in agriculture, we aim to ensure increased agricultural productivity and food security while promoting technological exchange and better market access,” Ruto stated.
A third MoU is focused on tourism, to increase the number of Dutch tourists visiting Kenya and boost Dutch investment in the country's tourism sector.
This agreement is expected to foster job creation and contribute to the country’s economic growth by capitalizing on Kenya's appeal as a top tourism destination.
We value this partnership and we are committed to strengthening our ties, expanding economic opportunities, and fostering sustainable collaborations that drive progress in both nations. pic.twitter.com/ld4rxaYzqS
— William Samoei Ruto, PhD (@WilliamsRuto) March 18, 2025
In addition to these agreements, the two countries signed a Letter of Intent addressing Kenya’s urgent water infrastructure needs.
This initiative includes investments in two key projects: the Naivasha SEZ Water Supply and Sanitation Project and the Sabaki Bulk Water Supply Project, which will improve access to clean and reliable water for local communities.
“Investments in water infrastructure are essential for sustainable development, and these projects will enhance access to clean and reliable water in key regions,” Ruto explained.
The partnership between Kenya and the Netherlands has evolved over decades, with mutual respect and common aspirations for a sustainable future at its core.
President Ruto highlighted the Netherlands as one of Kenya's most valuable European trading partners.
“Our nations share a strategic partnership dating back to 1964,” he said, noting the ongoing development of this relationship, which aims to create a greener and more prosperous future.
King Willem-Alexander, who said was impressed by Kenya’s rapid development, reiterated the importance of the long-standing relationship between the two countries.
He pointed out that the visit symbolized the strong and equal relationship that Kenya and the Netherlands have developed over the years.
“Our visit reflects a strong and equal relationship that has developed between our countries across a broad range of areas,” said King Willem-Alexander.
“As trading partners, partners for security and stability, as investors in sustainable development, as problem solvers in the food and water sector and as like-minded countries in the United Nations,” he added.
The Dutch royal couple also participated in a tree-planting event at Thogoto Forest, supporting Kenya's ambitious goal to plant 15 billion trees by 2032. This reflects the Netherlands’ commitment to supporting Kenya's environmental objectives.
Additionally, the Kenya-Dutch Business Forum was launched, offering a platform for Dutch investors to engage with young Kenyan entrepreneurs and business leaders.
This initiative aims to foster innovation and encourage economic collaboration between the two countries.
In conclusion, President Ruto expressed optimism about the future of Kenya-Netherlands relations, underscoring the importance of the signed agreements in ensuring mutual prosperity.
“We are committed to expanding economic opportunities and fostering sustainable partnerships, and these agreements will go a long way in ensuring mutual prosperity,” he concluded.
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