Deputy President Kithure Kindiki with German Vice Chancellor Robert Habeck at his Karen Residence in Nairobi
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On December 3, 2024, Deputy President Kithure Kindiki welcomed German Vice Chancellor and Minister for Economic Affairs and Climate Action, Dr. Robert Habeck, at his residence in Karen, Nairobi.
This diplomatic meeting underscore the commitment of both countries to enhance bilateral relations across a range of vital sectors. Key topics of discussion included strengthening cooperation in agriculture, livestock, tourism, trade, air services, labour migration, investments, and climate diplomacy. These areas are essential for both Kenya and Germany, as they seek to stimulate economic growth and collaboratively address pressing global challenges, particularly climate change.
The meeting also featured prominent Kenyan officials such as Cabinet Secretary Julius Ogamba (Education) and Principal Secretaries Teresia Mbaika (Devolution), Roseline Njogu (Diaspora Affairs), Abubakar Hassan (Investment Promotion), and Dr. Idris Salim Dakota (Cabinet Affairs). Their participation emphasized the multidimensional nature of the discussions and the collective effort necessary to implement the initiatives agreed upon.
This bilateral engagement highlights the strategic significance of relations between Kenya and Germany. By prioritizing sectors like agriculture and climate diplomacy, both nations aim to leverage their strengths while addressing shared interests. Additionally, the inclusion of labour migration and tourism illustrates a comprehensive approach to fostering economic ties and enhancing people-to-people connections.
During the meeting, Deputy President Kindiki highlighted the country's growing urgency for climate action. He emphasized that Kenya has been significantly impacted by climate change, experiencing longer droughts, erratic rainfall and shifting weather patterns, all of which threaten food security, water access, and energy generation. Kindiki expressed President William Ruto's commitment to climate justice, financing, and multilateral collaboration to address this collective threat.
He voiced hope that the ongoing German African Business Summit (GABS) in Nairobi would deliver solutions for climate financing and green initiatives to aid Kenya's adaptation efforts. Germany's historical leadership in climate action was also acknowledged, with Kindiki affirming the intention to strengthen Kenya's capacities in combating climate change. The two-day summit, concluding on December 4, 2024, aims to foster economic partnerships between African nations and Germany.