Prime Cabinet Secretary and Cabinet Secretary for Foreign and Diaspora Affairs Dr. Musalia Mudavadi and Foreign Secretary David Lammy MP met in London on Wednesday, 2 July, reflecting on the new Kenya-UK Strategic Partnership.
“The new Kenya-UK Strategic Partnership 2025-2030 will provide a comprehensive framework to progress our shared objectives, strengthening the bilateral relationship and delivering growth for both our countries,” David Lammy MP said as they met at London’s Guildhall in the margins of the Africa Debate.
The multi-year agreement will focus on key areas of shared strength: green growth, climate and nature, science and technology, and security and stability, the goal being creating jobs, fostering innovation, and protecting people and the planet.
Kenya, a gateway to the East African market, connects over 300 million people with a combined GDP of over KShs.52 billion (USD 400 billion).
Currently, the UK-Kenya trade is valued at KShs.218 billion (£1.8 billion) with UK companies being among the largest employers in Kenya.
This new partnership is expected to deliver KShs. 177 billion ($1 billion) for the UK economy in export finance, engineering jobs, and defense manufacturing jobs in Northampton and County Durham.
Lloyd’s of London is also set to make its entry into Nairobi’s insurance market, unlocking up to KShs.88 billion (£0.5 billion) in value and establishing Nairobi as the insurance gateway to East Africa.
Over the next five years, the two nations will pursue high-value investment deals with direct economic and social benefits. A centerpiece of this investment is the ambitious Nairobi Railway City project, an urban redevelopment plan worth Kshs.26 billion (£150 million), with the potential to create over 10,000 jobs.
“The Nairobi Railway City (NRC), a flagship project, exemplifies what is possible when ambition meets partnership. NRC is more than a transport hub; it is a symbol of Kenya’s future. Anchored at the new Nairobi Central Station, this multimodal development will seamlessly integrate with the expanding commuter rail, Bus Rapid Transit (BRT), PSV and non-motorised corridors. It is designed to our capital’s full potential as a globally hub for Investment,” said Mudavadi.
Mudavadi also announced the procurement launch of the Nairobi Central Station’s procurement and invited global investors, innovators, and visionaries to shape the future of urban mobility in Africa.
According to him, the NRC will range from commercial real estate and hospitality to tech innovation and student housing. NRC offers a spectrum of investment-ready opportunities.
“The project is structured around four strategic precincts: Central Station & Public Realm: The anchor of the development, offering prime opportunities in station design and transit-oriented development. MICE & Arena Precinct: A vibrant 24/7 hub for business, entertainment, and hospitality, with confirmed investor interest in a multi-purpose arena. Innovation & Knowledge District: A launchpad for startups, R&D, and venture capital, building on Kenya’s digital leadership,” said Mudavadi.
Beyond physical infrastructure, the partnership will mobilize at least KShs.36 billion (£200 million) for climate adaptation in Kenya, supporting the 1.5°C temperature goal, unlocking green energy transitions, and promoting nature-based solutions.
In science and technology, both countries will join forces on artificial intelligence and emerging technologies to drive inclusive growth and sustainable development.
Security, too, remains a cornerstone of the alliance. The renewed Security Compact will address both traditional and emerging threats, from cyberattacks and illicit finance to irregular migration and terrorism.
“The renewed security compact is designed to address both traditional and emerging security threats. Priorities include tackling risks from digital spaces and new technologies, reducing irregular migration, and countering illicit finance,” said Mudavadi.
