Today marked a historic milestone as KNCCI, in collaboration with the Embassy of the Republic of Kazakhstan, successfully hosted the inaugural Kenya–Kazakhstan Business Forum. Following the opening of the Embassy of Kazakhstan in Nairobi in June 2025, this landmark engagement signals a new era of strengthened diplomatic and commercial ties between our two nations.

The forum brought together Kenyan private sector leaders physically at the Embassy, alongside business delegates from Kazakhstan who joined virtually demonstrating a shared commitment to deepening bilateral trade and investment.

Why This Matters

Kazakhstan is the largest economy in Central Asia, with a GDP exceeding USD 286 billion and projected to surpass USD 300 billion this year, presenting significant opportunities for Kenyan exporters and investors.

Key Highlights

* Expanding bilateral trade and investment cooperation
* Unlocking export opportunities for Kenyan premium coffee and value-added products
* Strengthening structured business-to-business engagement
* Enhancing market intelligence and investment collaboration

In his remarks, H.E. Mr. B. Sadykov, Ambassador of the Republic of Kazakhstan to Kenya, emphasized the strong potential for Kenyan coffee exports, noting that a single cup of coffee in Kazakhstan retails at approximately USD 5 — signaling a high-value market opportunity.

Government Participation

The Ministry of Foreign and Diaspora Affairs was represented by Mr. Evans Maturu, Head of Economic Affairs and Commercial Diplomacy.
KenInvest was represented by Mr. Pius Rotich, Director of Manufacturing Investment, who outlined investment opportunities in both countries.

In his address, KNCCI Director Mr. Ken Onditi, MBS, reaffirmed the Chamber’s commitment to supporting Kenyan businesses through:

* Development of comprehensive market intelligence briefs
* Guidance on regulatory requirements and tax incentives
* Structured market entry strategies
* A planned high-level trade mission to Kazakhstan in the coming months

The keynote address was delivered by PS Stephen Isaboke, MBS, Ministry of Information, Communications and the Digital Economy, who welcomed the proposal to establish a dedicated business hub to facilitate structured and deliberate trade between the two countries.

We extend our sincere appreciation to all KNCCI members and partners who participated in this pioneering forum. This engagement has laid a strong foundation for expanded trade, investment, and strategic collaboration.

The future of Kenya–Kazakhstan relations is promising and this forum marks only the beginning of a dynamic and mutually beneficial partnership.