At the Global Gateway Forum in Brussels, European Commissioner for International Partnerships, Jutta Urpilainen and Kenyan Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua, launched the EU-Kenya cooperation priorities for 2023. The announcement further bolsters already strong ties and solidifies shared values between Kenya and the EU.
Commissioner Urpilainen, said: “The European Union is a strong partner with Kenya and with the launch of the EU-Kenya Cooperation priorities for 2023, we are committed to continue supporting the country’s green, digital and inclusive transitions. To meet this goal, our partnership is growing ever-closer, and I witnessed myself when visiting the country at the beginning of October. In Nairobi, I could see the Global Gateway in action and how it is transforming citizens lives. Together, we can support Kenya reach its strong potential by providing the country with high quality hard and soft infrastructure through improving urban mobility and connecting schools to the internet.”
Kenyan Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua said: “Kenya welcomes this statement of signature of the Multiannual action plan 2023-2024, which will be realised through the outlined priorities for the Multiannual Indicative programme 2021-2027. This collaboration marks a pivotal stride towards a brighter future for the Kenyan people. As we implement the Global Gateway, we are confident that sustainable development, and prosperity will rightfully take centre stage in our development cooperation narrative going forward.
This underscores the strong shared vision for a partnership that is best for our people and prosperity and a future where our nation transitions into a green economy, prioritizing environmental sustainability. The EU’s commitment is not just a partnership; it’s a beacon of hope for a better, more prosperous Kenya.”
The EU and Kenya are committed to the Sustainable Development Goals (SDG) of the 2030 Agenda and to the Paris Agreement on climate change. The European Union has a long-standing partnership with Kenya, which is comprehensive and encompasses the economic, security, political and social sectors. The successful conclusion, in June 2023, of the political negotiations for the Economic Partnership Agreement (EPA) between the EU and Kenya is a steppingstone towards further deepening the bilateral trade relationship with Kenya. The recent launch entails an EU contribution of €72 million to Kenya, under the EU Annual Action Plans 2023 and 2024.
EU Contribution Highlights:
Green Deal #TeamEuropeKenya, part II (€43 million) – Building upon the success of the Green Deal – part I, this initiative will promote sustainable development, renewable energy, and environmental protection in Kenya. It will address pressing environmental challenges and support the country’s transition to a green economy.
Strengthening Kenya’s Devolution (€10 million) – The EU is committed to supporting Kenya’s devolution process, empowering local governments to better serve their citizens, enhance public services, and strengthen governance at the grassroots level.
Strengthening Kenya’s Security and Cybersecurity (€10 million) – In a world increasingly interconnected, the EU is contributing to enhancing Kenya’s national security and cybersecurity systems, thus promoting a safer environment for its citizens and businesses. This is part of the Team Europe efforts for a human-centred digitalisation in Kenya.
Stop Female Genital Mutilation (FGM) now, Komesha FGM Sasa! (€4 million) – The EU is resolute in its stand against Female Genital Mutilation (FGM). This action will reduce the exposure of vulnerable populations, such as women, youth, children, persons with disabilities and displacement affected communities, against all forms of gender based violence, and will support Kenya’s efforts to effectively combat FGM.
Cooperation and Partnership Facility II (€5 million) – This action will serve as a catalyst for cooperation and partnership between the European Union and Kenya, facilitating the implementation of various development projects.
This commitment underscores the EU’s unwavering support for Kenya’s progress and development. It marks a significant step towards a brighter future for the Kenyan people, where sustainable development, security, and prosperity take centre stage.
Background
The Global Gateway Forum brings together government representatives from the European Union and across the globe, alongside key stakeholders from the private sector, civil society, thought leaders, financial institutions, and international organisations. The assembly promotes global investment in transformative infrastructure – hard and soft- to deliver on SDGs.
Global Gateway is the EU’s positive offer to boost smart, clean and secure connections in digital, energy and transport sectors, and to strengthen health, education and research systems.
The Global Gateway strategy embodies a Team Europe approach that brings together the European Union, EU Member States, and European development finance institutions. Together, it aims to mobilize up to €300 billion in public and private investments from 2021 to 2027, creating essential links rather than dependencies, and closing the global investment gap.
More Information
EU-Kenya Partnership
Global Gateway Forum
Global Gateway
