Kenya and Qatar have celebrated the 53rd National Day Celebration of Qatar’s State, reflecting Qatar’s role as a global partner and its commitment to building bridges across the nations.
Speaking during the event, Mining, Blue Economy, and Maritime Affairs, Cabinet Secretary (CS) Ali Hassan Joho, expressed Kenya’s pride to stand with Qatar as a partner in commemorating the historic day.
He noted that the occasion provides an opportunity to recognise the remarkable journey of the people of Qatar and honour their resilience, sacrifices, and milestones that have shaped the State of Qatar.
The CS commended the diplomatic relations between Kenya and Qatar, which have grown since the establishment of ties in 2003 based on mutual respect, shared values, and strategic cooperation.
Additionally, he termed Qatar as a global leader in peace and security diplomacy, development, and humanitarian assistance, distinguishing itself from other nations.
“Kenya commends Qatar’s mediation efforts that have contributed significantly to peace and security in the Horn of Africa and the Middle East,” he reiterated.
Further, Joho highlighted Qatar’s significant contributions to Kenya’s development and advancement in the fields of aquaculture and humanitarian assistance, where it is supported by the Qatar Fund for Development, a $10 million funding programme, which runs for 5 years, with Qatar contributing $5 million.
While commenting on the ongoing aquaculture development Project dubbed Climate-Resilient Aquaculture Systems for Africa (CASA’s), the CS revealed that Qatar supports water and agricultural projects, as well as humanitarian initiatives such as the donation of equipment from the 2022 FIFA World Cup.
He added that Kenya looks forward to further collaboration as it prepares to co-host the 2027 Africa Cup of Nations with neighbouring Tanzania and Uganda.
Meanwhile, Joho emphasised the labour relations between the two nations, bolstered by the recent official visit to Kenya by Dr. Ali Bin Samikh Ali, Qatar’s Minister of Labour, which culminated in the creation of job opportunities for Kenyan professionals and skilled workers in Qatar.
“We are committed to working together to enhance training opportunities for Kenyan workers to meet the labour demands in Qatar’s priority sectors,” he affirmed, expressing gratitude for Qatar’s hospitality to nearly 70,000 Kenyans, whose contributions benefit both countries.
Further, the CS welcomed the proposal to establish a Qatar Visa Centre (QVC) in Nairobi as a positive development since the centre will address labour mobility challenges, simplify pre-departure processes, and combat irregular migration, ensuring smooth transitions for Kenyan workers.
“On trade, I reiterate Kenya’s readiness to work collaboratively with the State of Qatar to boost bilateral trade for the mutual benefit of the two countries. Kenya exports fish and fishery products, horticultural products, fresh fruits, vegetables, and livestock,” he highlighted, adding that imports from Qatar include fertilisers, chemicals, plastics, furniture, and liquefied petroleum gas.
However, despite the positive strides in Qatar-Kenya relations, the CS noted that the trade volume between the two nations remains relatively low.
He announced that in 2023, Kenya’s exports to Qatar were valued at US$17.47 million, while imports stood at US$59.82 million.
“We are keen to diversify and expand market access for the Kenyan blue economy and fisheries, agriculture, and livestock products to Qatar,” stated Joho as he expressed Kenya’s eagerness to expand market access for its blue economy and agricultural products to Qatar.
He also looked forward to the conclusion of key agreements between the two nations, including the Memoranda of Understanding on Blue Economy Cooperation and Fisheries, the Kenya-Qatar Joint Commission for Cooperation (JCC), political consultations, and joint trade committees, which are expected to further deepen ties and foster people-to-people engagement.
Making his remarks, the Ambassador of the State of Qatar to Kenya, Mohammed bin Mutair Al-Enazi, underscored the significance of the growing partnership and the shared vision for a prosperous future between the two nations.
He boasted of the great achievements that the State of Qatar has achieved in several fields, including politics, diplomacy, sports, health, education, and economics, that draw a clear picture of the bright future of the State of Qatar.
While acknowledging the guidance and leadership of the United States, the Ambassador maintained that Qatar has reinforced its dedication to promoting cultural openness and fostering relationships with nations and regional and international organisations, a commitment that demonstrates an active role in advancing peace and international security.
“The State of Qatar is committed to resolving disputes through peaceful means, dialogue, preventive diplomacy, mediation, and friendly efforts,” asserted Al-Enazi, emphasising that Qatar has participated in resolving over 40 global disputes in the past two decades.
On the other hand, he pointed out that Qatar’s deepening bilateral relations with the Republic of Kyrgyzstan were highlighted with numerous agreements and joint projects contributing to the development of both nations.
Notable initiatives, according to the Ambassador, include the Qatar Development Fund, which bolsters efforts to provide quality and elementary education for children in need in partnership with UNICEF, and also the Qatar Charitable Association.
“The bilateral visits between the officials of the Republic of Kyrgyzstan and through the implementation of a number of projects, including the establishment of the Qatar Development Fund and the establishment of Education for All, are among the projects,” he restated.
Al-Enazi noted that there are more than 70,000 people from diverse nationalities currently working in Qatar in various fields and providing care and attention and who also benefit from comprehensive rights and care, which further underscores the country’s dedication to fostering collaboration and inclusivity.
By Sharon Atieno
