Morocco has pledged to increase its importation of Kenyan tea and coffee. This commitment came during a high-level meeting in Rabat between Kenya’s Prime Cabinet Secretary (CS) Musalia Mudavadi and Moroccan Prime Minister Aziz Akhannouch, underscoring the growing cooperation between the two nations.
The discussions focused on enhancing collaboration across multiple sectors including trade, tourism, agriculture, industry, and education. Of particular importance was the decision by Prime Minister Akhannouch to prioritize Kenyan tea and coffee within Morocco’s import strategy. This move presents a promising new market for Kenya’s two leading agricultural exports, which are vital contributors to the country’s economy and livelihoods of millions of Kenyan farmers.
Prime Minister Akhannouch expressed strong interest in deepening the economic and diplomatic relations by accepting an invitation from CS Mudavadi to visit Kenya. He intends to lead a delegation of Moroccan investors, signaling Morocco’s intention to explore further investment opportunities and strengthen bilateral economic ties. This planned visit is expected to pave the way for increased trade, technology transfer, and enhanced cooperation in other key sectors.
CS Mudavadi highlighted the importance of immediate bilateral engagements aimed at unlocking the full potential of the Moroccan market for Kenyan products and expertise. He emphasized that these steps would facilitate access for Kenyan exporters and promote Kenya’s competitive advantage in the agro-processing sector.
During the Rabat visit, Mudavadi was accompanied by Kenya’s Ambassador to Morocco, Jessica Gakinya, Deputy Director for Africa Affairs Lazarus Muganda, and senior embassy officer Abdullahi Mohamed, demonstrating Kenya’s diplomatic commitment to fostering this partnership.
This strategic engagement signals a new chapter in Kenya-Morocco relations, with promising opportunities for economic growth and diversification. For Kenya, expanding exports to Morocco not only strengthens market access but also enhances the country’s position within the broader African trade landscape. As both countries move towards closer cooperation, Kenyan tea and coffee exporters stand to benefit from increased demand and expanded trade networks.
