Kenya is seeking to strengthen its position as a regional investment and trade hub by attracting more American businesses to invest in value addition, technology transfer and other high-growth sectors. Principal Secretary for Foreign Affairs Korir Sing’oei held talks with a delegation from the US Chamber of Commerce and the US-Africa Business Center (USAfBC) in Nairobi on Wednesday, September 9, 2026. The delegation was led by USAfBC President Kendra Gaither and marked the second major US business delegation to visit Kenya this year.
Kenya Seeks Increased US Investment
The discussions focused on expanding trade between Kenya and the United States, increasing private-sector investment and deepening commercial relations between the two countries. Sing’oei highlighted the importance of the continued African Growth and Opportunity Act (AGOA), whose extension to 2028 provides exporters and investors with greater certainty when planning their businesses. Kenya is also encouraging US companies to view the country as a gateway to wider African markets.
The government wants American investors to leverage Kenya’s access to the East African Community (EAC), COMESA and the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA). Officials pointed to Kenya’s established financial sector, skilled workforce and regional connectivity as some of the factors that make the country an attractive investment destination.
Key Investment Sectors Identified
The talks identified several sectors with significant potential for increased cooperation and private-sector investment.
These include:
- Digital economy and financial technology
- Healthcare and medical infrastructure
- Critical minerals
- Sustainable supply chains
- Creative industries
- Youth empowerment
The government believes investment in these areas could create jobs, promote technology transfer and strengthen Kenya’s role in regional value chains.
Kenya Backs AmCham Business Summit
Kenya also reaffirmed its support for the upcoming AmCham Business Summit in Nairobi, which is expected to bring together government officials, investors and business leaders. Sing’oei said stronger private-sector partnerships would be critical in turning the longstanding Kenya-US diplomatic relationship into tangible economic benefits. He reaffirmed the government’s commitment to maintaining a competitive, transparent and investor-friendly business environment.
The Foreign Affairs PS said the latest engagement demonstrated the growing effort to transform Kenya-US diplomatic relations into concrete trade and investment opportunities. The government hopes continued engagement with American businesses will result in increased investment, expanded markets and greater economic opportunities for Kenyans.
