Prime Cabinet Secretary Musalia Mudavadi is currently in Washington, United States, for crucial bilateral talks aimed at bolstering the long-standing relationship between Kenya and the US. His visit, which follows an invitation from the US government, marks the first high-level engagement between Nairobi and Washington since President Donald Trump’s re-election.
During his visit, Mudavadi is scheduled to meet with US Secretary of State Marco Rubio to discuss various sectors, including security, trade, and investment. The focus of these discussions will be to enhance the partnership between the two countries, particularly in areas that promote shared growth and regional stability.
One key area that Mudavadi will highlight is trade and investment. The Prime Cabinet Secretary is pushing for the renewal of the African Growth and Opportunity Act (AGOA), which would provide Kenyan exports with preferential access to the US market. He is also seeking to attract more US investments into Kenya, aiming to create more business opportunities and strengthen Kenya’s position as an economic hub in Africa.
Mudavadi’s engagement in Washington follows a significant milestone in the Kenya-US relationship – President William Ruto’s State Visit in May 2024. This visit was historic, as it was the first State Visit by an African leader to the US since 2008. It underscores the growing diplomatic ties between Kenya and the US, which continue to deepen across various sectors.
On the security front, Mudavadi praised the US for its unwavering support in promoting peace and stability, particularly in the Great Lakes Region. The two countries have long collaborated on regional security efforts, a partnership that remains vital for ensuring lasting peace in the area.
In his discussions with US lawmakers, including a meeting with Brian Mast, Chairman of the House Foreign Affairs Committee, Mudavadi also advocated for stronger economic ties and encouraged US investors to explore the diverse opportunities available within Kenya’s growing market.
