President William Ruto has reiterated Nairobi’s commitment to strengthening the enduring bond between Kenya and the United States.
President William Ruto (middle) during the signing ceremony of an MOU by Principal Secretary for Diaspora Affairs Roseline Njogu (L), and Nebraska’s Secretary of State Robert Evnen (R) between Kenya and the Cornhusker State at State House Nairobi on Tuesday.Photos Courtesy of PCU
That relationship, Dr Ruto noted, is historically anchored by the African Growth and Opportunity Act (AGOA) trade framework, strategic security cooperation, and shared democratic values.
Consequently, in a significant move aimed at deepening international ties at a state level, the Kenyan government has signed a landmark cooperation agreement with the US State of Nebraska.
The Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) underlines a strategic effort to expand opportunities for Kenyans abroad and create new channels for investment, education, and skills transfer.
“This pioneering arrangement marks a significant step forward in our partnership, serving to expand opportunities for Kenyans abroad and substantially deepen the people-to-people ties that form the bedrock of our international friendship,” a statement from the President’s office noted.
The wide-ranging MoU outlines a multifaceted agenda for collaboration between Kenya and the Cornhusker State, focusing on formalising structures to engage the Kenyan community in the region and facilitate their contribution to Kenya’s development.
It will also create new pathways for Kenyan students and apprentices to gain skills in Nebraska’s key industries, notably agriculture and manufacturing.
In addition, it will promote the exchange of expertise, particularly in agricultural technology, water management, and renewable energy.
Moreover, the MOU will encourage mutual tourism promotion and facilitate business links between Kenyan and Nebraskan companies.
“It will essentially develop programmes for structured labour exchange to address skill gaps and provide employment opportunities.”
The partnership with Nebraska, a major agricultural and academic hub in the American heartland, is seen as a pragmatic move to access specific expertise and markets.
For Nebraska, the agreement opens doors to a key East African economy and strengthens its own international footprint.
Source: theeyeswatchmedia.co.ke