Kenya’s Agriculture Industry is among the biggest winners in Kenya – Germany bilateral relations.
In a landmark development, Kenya and Germany have embarked on a collaborative journey aimed at boosting skilled labour, strengthening the agricultural sector, and fostering stable political ties. The decision came after a recent meeting between National Assembly Majority Leader Kimani Ichungwah and German Ambassador to Kenya Sebastian Groth at the Kenyan parliament.
The crux of this partnership revolves around two major areas: enhancing Kenya’s Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) centers and bolstering the agricultural industry. According to a joint press release, both countries recognise the mutual benefits of collaboration and are committed to ensuring that their partnership thrives.
The meeting identified a critical need in Germany for around 400,000 skilled labourers annually. Here, Kenya emerged as a prime candidate to fulfill this demand, given its growing pool of skilled professionals. To meet this demand, 60 TVET centres in Kenya are set to undergo comprehensive enhancements, aligning their curriculum with the requirements of various industries in Germany. Language proficiency, particularly in German, will be a priority to ensure seamless integration into the German workforce.
“Germany is currently in need of approximately 400,000 skilled labourers annually, and Kenya has emerged as a promising partner in fulfilling this demand,” the statement reads.
This collaboration not only benefits Germany’s labour market but also offers Kenya the opportunity to address unemployment by directing its skilled workforce toward international opportunities.
Furthermore, both nations recognise the immense potential within Kenya’s agricultural sector. The collaboration aims to focus on increasing value addition in key areas such as coffee, tea, and dairy. By refining and processing these products within the country, Kenya intends to enhance its export potential and generate higher value from its agricultural resources. This initiative has the potential to create additional job opportunities within the agricultural value chain while boosting the country’s economic resilience.
In addition to skilled labour and agriculture, the partnership also involves efforts to fortify political ties between the two countries. This collaboration builds upon a long history of bilateral relations, with Germany being the first country to recognise Kenya under international law after its independence in 1963.
“This partnership is a testament to the strong bond between our nations, and it reflects our commitment to mutual growth and development,” stated Deputy Ambassador Thomas Wimmer of the Federal Republic of Germany.
Both countries have recognised the importance of cooperation in the face of regional challenges and are committed to supporting each other’s endeavours.
The Kenyan government has expressed its enthusiasm for strengthening bilateral ties with Germany, acknowledging the value of shared experiences and ideas in the realm of governance and democracy. As part of this collaboration, the Konrad Adenauer Stiftung (KAS), a German foundation championing governance and the rule of law, celebrated its 50th anniversary in Kenya. The foundation has played a crucial role in introducing multiparty politics and constitutional changes, while also fostering a deeper understanding of democracy and governance.
“The rich historical ties between Kenya and Germany date back to 1963 when, upon our attainment of independence, Germany became the first State to recognise our newly-born nation. That marked the beginning of a deep friendship that has grown stronger every passing year. Our
common values and cooperation in diverse spheres of endeavor include energy, climate action, agriculture, health, trade and investment, and education.” read part of a press statement by President William Ruto of The Republic of Kenya at the press conference with the Chancellor of Germany Olaf Scholz on May 5th 2023.
The partnership between Kenya and Germany also extends to technology exchange, trade, and energy collaboration. Past trade talks between the President of the Kenya National Chamber of Commerce and Industry and the Mayor of the City of Gersothen paved the way for increased technology transfer. This collaboration is set to benefit both nations by boosting technology transfer and development, particularly in areas such as ICT, E-Mobility, TVET, and vocational training.
Furthermore, Germany’s commitment to funding the expansion of Kenya’s Olkaria Geothermal Station aligns with Kenya’s goal of achieving a 100% clean energy grid. The leaders have pledged to work together to implement the Paris Agreement and join the Climate Club, thereby contributing to global efforts to combat climate change.
This strategic partnership between Kenya and Germany exemplifies the potential for cooperation between nations to drive economic growth, address pressing challenges, and facilitate shared learning. As both countries embark on this journey, they look forward to a future of enhanced collaboration, increased bilateral ties, and mutual prosperity.