Kenya and Japan have reaffirmed their commitment to strengthening bilateral ties through expanded cooperation in trade, investment, development financing and multilateral engagement.

Speaking in Nairobi while hosting a visiting Japanese delegation led by Japan’s Foreign Minister Motegi Toshimitsu, Prime Cabinet Secretary and Cabinet Secretary for Foreign and Diaspora Affairs Musalia Mudavadi said Kenya values its longstanding partnership with Japan, describing the Asian nation as a dependable development partner.

Mudavadi noted that the two countries reviewed progress made in Kenya-Japan relations and explored new areas of cooperation aimed at boosting economic growth and development.

“Japan is Kenya’s key and dependable development partner. Kenya attaches great importance to its partnership with Japan, which has continued to deliver tangible results across critical sectors of our economy,” said Mudavadi.

He observed that the visit comes at a time when the world is facing economic and geopolitical uncertainty, making strong international partnerships increasingly important.

“We are operating in an increasingly volatile global environment, and it is important that we continue to strengthen strategic partnerships such as this one,” he added.

Mudavadi praised Japan’s continued support through Official Development Assistance, which has funded major projects in infrastructure, geothermal energy, agriculture, irrigation, health, ICT and education.

He said Japanese support has played a significant role in Kenya’s transformation agenda, particularly in infrastructure development and renewable energy.

On trade relations, Mudavadi acknowledged the existing trade imbalance between the two countries, noting that Kenya exports far less to Japan compared to imports from the Asian nation.

“There is a need to expand market access for Kenyan products and create a more balanced and mutually beneficial trade relationship,” he said.

The Prime Cabinet Secretary encouraged Japanese investors to take advantage of investment opportunities available in Kenya through Public-Private Partnerships and ongoing economic reforms.

“Kenya remains open and ready for investment. We welcome deeper Japanese participation in our development agenda,” he stated.

Mudavadi also highlighted ongoing discussions on innovative financing arrangements, including the proposed Samurai loan structure and support for strategic infrastructure projects such as Phase II of the Mombasa Special Economic Zone.

“These financing discussions are critical in supporting priority national projects and strengthening economic resilience,” he said.

On matters of regional security, Mudavadi welcomed Japan’s continued support in maritime security and capacity building, saying it remains crucial for regional stability and international trade facilitation.

The talks also focused on multilateral cooperation, with Mudavadi calling for reforms in global governance systems and international financial institutions to reflect current global realities.

“We must continue to push for a more inclusive and responsive multilateral system,” he said.

Mudavadi further expressed concern over ongoing conflicts in Ukraine, the Middle East and parts of Africa, warning that the conflicts continue to affect global supply chains and economic stability.

“Dialogue remains the most viable path to lasting solutions,” he said.

During the meeting, Mudavadi congratulated Japan on the election of Sanae Takaichi as the country’s first female Prime Minister, describing the development as a historic milestone in inclusive leadership.

In his remarks, Motegi said Japan values its partnership with Kenya and remains committed to strengthening cooperation in trade, investment and development.

“Kenya is an important partner for Japan in Africa. We are committed to deepening our cooperation in trade, investment and development,” said Motegi.

The two leaders called for accelerated efforts to address the trade imbalance, promote value addition for Kenyan exports and strengthen business linkages between the two countries.

They also emphasized the need to expand people-to-people exchanges in education, tourism, culture and sports, alongside technical training and scholarship programmes.

On climate action and maritime security, the two sides pledged enhanced cooperation, including Kenya’s participation in global environmental initiatives such as the Yokohama Green Expo 2027.

The meeting concluded with both countries expressing commitment to deepening practical cooperation aimed at delivering tangible economic and development outcomes.

Kenya and Japan have maintained diplomatic and development relations for more than six decades, with the partnership continuing to grow in areas of trade, infrastructure, education and people-to-people ties.