(L) Hassan Ali Joho CS for Mining and Blue Economy with Mohammed Mutair Al-Shamlani Al-Anzi, Ambassador of Qatar to Kenya during the Qatar’s 53rd National Celebration day.
Kenya and the State of Qatar have reaffirmed their commitment to strengthening diplomatic ties and deepening cooperation across various sectors, including trade, labor, and economic development, during Qatar’s 53rd National Day celebrations held in Nairobi on Monday.
The celebration, attended by members of the diplomatic corps, government officials, religious leaders, and key stakeholders, underscored the growing bond between the two nations. Cabinet Secretary for Mining, Blue Economy, and Maritime Affairs, Hon. Hassan Ali Joho, served as the guest of honor alongside Qatar’s Ambassador to Kenya, H.E. Mohammed Mutair Al-Shamlani Al-Anzi.
In his address, CS Joho lauded the strong ties between Kenya and Qatar since the establishment of formal diplomatic relations in 2003. He commended Qatar for its global leadership in diplomacy and humanitarian efforts, particularly its role in fostering peace and security in the Horn of Africa and the Middle East.
“We deeply value Qatar’s role as a development partner in advancing Kenya’s Bottom-Up Economic Transformation Agenda (BETA),” Joho stated. Highlighting Qatar’s impactful investments, he noted the Climate-Resilient Aquaculture Systems for Africa (CASA) project, a USD 10 million initiative supporting aquaculture development, with Qatar contributing USD 5 million.
Additionally, Joho praised Qatar Charity’s ongoing support for water and agricultural projects, emphasizing their role in improving livelihoods across Kenya. He further expressed optimism about Kenya’s co-hosting of the 2027 Africa Cup of Nations alongside Tanzania and Uganda, underscoring Qatar’s generous equipment donations post-2022 FIFA World Cup.
The Cabinet Secretary also celebrated recent advancements in labor relations following a high-profile visit to Kenya by Qatar’s Minister of Labor, Dr. Ali Bin Samikh Al-Marri. The visit resulted in expanded job opportunities for Kenyan professionals and skilled workers in Qatar. With over 70,000 Kenyans already working in Qatar, Joho applauded their contributions to both nations’ economies.
The proposed establishment of a Qatar Visa Centre (QVC) in Nairobi is set to streamline pre-departure processes for Kenyan workers, enhancing labor mobility while combating irregular migration. “This center will ensure smooth transitions for our workers and reinforce their protection,” he added.
While acknowledging the progress in bilateral trade, Joho noted that trade volumes remain modest. In 2023, Kenya’s exports to Qatar stood at USD 17.47 million, compared to imports valued at USD 59.82 million. Kenya currently exports fish, fresh produce, and livestock products while importing fertilizers, chemicals, plastics, and LPG from Qatar.
“We are keen to diversify and expand market access for Kenyan blue economy products, agriculture, and livestock into the Qatari market,” Joho stated. He expressed hope for the swift conclusion of pending agreements, including Memorandums of Understanding (MOUs) on Blue Economy, Fisheries, and Political Consultations, as well as the Kenya-Qatar Joint Trade Committee.
Speaking during the Qatar’s 53rd National day celebrations, Ambassandor Al-Shamlani underscored Qatar’s commitment to strengthening bilateral relations with Kenya. He praised Kenya’s leadership under President William Ruto, highlighting mutual goals for economic growth and cooperation.
“The State of Qatar believes in resolving conflicts through dialogue and mediation, a principle embedded in our foreign policy,” he said. Qatar’s role as a mediator in 40 global conflicts over two decades reflects its steadfast commitment to peace and global development.
Ambassador Al-Shamlani also highlighted the contributions of Qatar Fund for Development and the Education Above All Foundation, including programs providing quality education for out-of-school children in Kenya. Qatar Charity’s donations towards schools, water projects, and humanitarian initiatives further demonstrate Qatar’s enduring partnership with Kenya.
Both leaders emphasized the importance of fostering deeper people-to-people connections, with education, employment, and cultural exchanges serving as critical bridges.
“The growing opportunities for Kenyan workers in Qatar are a testament to our partnership, and we remain committed to supporting their success,” the Ambassador remarked.
The 53rd National Day celebration served as a powerful platform to showcase the mutual aspirations of Kenya and Qatar. As both nations continue to collaborate on trade, labor, and development initiatives, the future promises prosperity and deeper ties for their citizens.
“Let us work together to unlock the full potential of our partnership,” Joho added toasting to the leadership of H.H. Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani and the people of Qatar.