Kenya, Netherlands Strengthen Investment Ties with Landmark Agreement
The State Department of Investment Promotion (SDIP) and The Netherlands Business Hub Kenya (NLBH) have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) aimed at enhancing trade and investment opportunities between the two nations.
The agreement, formalized during a high-profile business forum coinciding with the State Visit of King Willem-Alexander and Queen Máxima of the Netherlands, underscores the growing economic partnership between Kenya and the Netherlands.
The MOU seeks to reinforce support for Dutch businesses operating in Kenya while promoting Kenya as a key investment destination both locally and internationally.
Speaking at the event, Principal Secretary for Investment Promotion, Hon. Abubakar Hassan Abubakar, hailed the agreement as a significant step in acknowledging the Netherlands as one of Kenya’s largest trade and investment partners.
“This MOU underwrites the recognition of the Kenyan Government of the importance of the Netherlands Business community as one of the largest trade and investment partners for Kenya,” he stated.
Echoing similar sentiments, Mr. Jules Delahaije, Chairman of the Netherlands Business Hub, emphasized the importance of public-private sector collaboration in fostering a conducive business environment.
“The cooperation between the State Department of Investment Promotion and the Netherlands Business Hub confirms the value of the Netherlands Business Community in Kenya. It is a good example of the public and private sector supporting each other to promote ‘doing business in Kenya’ and to improve the investment climate,” he remarked.
Ms. Yvonne Oerlemans, General Manager of NLBH, noted that the agreement symbolizes the hub’s dedication to bridging business communities in Kenya and the Netherlands.
“The signing of the MOU is a recognition of our passion and our commitment to connect business communities locally here in Kenya and between Kenya and the Netherlands. By facilitating these connections, we stimulate growth, knowledge transfer, and great networking opportunities,” she said.
The Dutch Ambassador to Kenya, Hon. Henk-Jan Bakker, reiterated the role of strong government-private sector partnerships in fostering business growth.
“A strong partnership between government and the private sector is essential for business support. The signing of this MOU will strengthen the economic ties between Kenya and the Netherlands and will create more chances for trade and investment,” he affirmed.
With the Netherlands being a key player in Kenya’s trade and investment landscape, the MOU is expected to open new avenues for economic collaboration, job creation, and innovation.
