President Ruto names five CSs to oversee EU partnership deal
This decision, made official through a Gazette Notice dated April 11, aligns with Kenya's broader aim of deepening international trade ties.
President William Ruto has named Trade Cabinet Secretary Lee Kinyanjui as the co-chairperson of the Economic Partnership Agreement (EPA) Council that oversees trade relations between Kenya and the European Union.
This decision, made official through a Gazette Notice dated April 11, aligns with Kenya's broader aim of deepening international trade ties.
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The EPA Council serves as the top organ under the agreement and is responsible for ensuring the proper rollout of its provisions.
Through the EPA, Kenya has secured long-term access to the EU market, allowing duty-free and quota-free entry for Kenyan exports to all 27 EU member countries. This is expected to enhance trade and attract more investment into the country.
In addition to Kinyanjui, President Ruto appointed four other Cabinet Secretaries to serve on the council. They include Prime Cabinet Secretary and Foreign Affairs CS Musalia Mudavadi, Treasury CS John Mbadi, Agriculture CS Mutahi Kagwe, and Environment CS Aden Duale.
The appointments fulfill Article 132(5) of the Constitution, which mandates the President to ensure that international agreements are carried out by the relevant Cabinet members.
President Ruto had earlier led the signing of the EPA in May 2024, marking a significant milestone in the country's foreign trade policy. The agreement is expected to help create more jobs and promote targeted cooperation aimed at boosting Kenya's economic growth.
With the EU as Kenya's largest export market and second-biggest trade partner, trade between the two reached €3.3 billion in 2022—a 27 percent rise compared to 2018. The EPA is set to unlock even more potential for Kenyan goods, thanks to guaranteed access to the European market and clearer legal frameworks.
Beyond trade, the EPA is seen as a progressive deal due to its strong focus on sustainability. It includes provisions on environmental protection, workers’ rights, and gender equality—making it the most comprehensive agreement of its kind between the EU and a developing nation.
By forming the EPA Council and putting key officials at the helm, Kenya is positioning itself to make the most of this landmark agreement and drive inclusive economic growth through strengthened international cooperation.
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