Kenya Hires Lobbyists to Bolster U.S Ties

Kenya has contracted a U.S based lobbying firm to strengthen its diplomatic and economic standing ahead of President William Ruto’s planned state visit to Washington, where he will meet U.S. President Donald Trump and also address the 80th session of the United Nations General Assembly (UNGA) in New York.

Documents filed with the U.S. Department of Justice show that Continental Strategy LLC will provide government relations and advocacy services to Nairobi. The agreement, signed on August 6, 2025, outlines a monthly retainer fee of $175,000 (about KSh 22 million), alongside reimbursement for travel and other related costs. According to the contract, the firm will be responsible for lobbying at the federal level, preparing policy briefs, and facilitating Kenya’s engagement with key decision-makers in Washington.

The Ministry of Foreign Affairs, through Principal Secretary Dr. Korir Sing’oei, is designated as the official point of contact. The one-year contract includes an automatic renewal clause unless either party issues notice of termination at least 30 days before expiry.

The move underscores the high stakes surrounding Ruto’s first official visit to the United States under the Trump administration. Kenya is expected to push for the extension of the African Growth and Opportunity Act (AGOA), attract American investment in energy and technology, and strengthen security cooperation given Nairobi’s frontline role in regional stability and counterterrorism.

The visit also comes against the backdrop of shifting global alignments. In April 2025, Ruto traveled to Beijing, where his remarks suggested a growing openness to Chinese-led infrastructure and financing models. Observers say the Washington trip is Nairobi’s opportunity to recalibrate and signal balance in its foreign policy by reinforcing ties with the U.S.

For Washington, Kenya remains a critical ally in East Africa, not only as a regional economic hub but also as a partner in peacekeeping missions and counter-extremism. Analysts note that enlisting professional lobbyists signals Kenya’s determination to carefully shape the agenda and outcomes of Ruto’s visit.

By investing in high-level advocacy, Kenya is positioning itself as a reliable partner seeking deeper integration into the global economy, while navigating an increasingly competitive geopolitical landscape.