Kenya and Portugal are seeking to deepen trade, investment and diplomatic cooperation as they approach the 50th anniversary of formal ties established on 10 January 1977.

The agenda was set during a meeting between Portugal’s ambassador to Kenya, H.E. Paulo Neves Pocinho, and Kenya’s Principal Secretary for Foreign Affairs, Dr. Korir Sing’Oei, at the Ministry of Foreign and Diaspora Affairs.

Both sides highlighted the need to strengthen commercial links and expand private‑sector partnerships across infrastructure, renewable energy, manufacturing, ICT, healthcare and agriculture.

Kenya encouraged Portuguese firms to increase participation in its economy, noting the role of the Portuguese Business Council in facilitating investment opportunities and business matchmaking.

Discussions also covered the Blue Economy, with Kenya recognising Portugal’s contribution through the Go Blue Initiative, which supports coastal development, sustainable fisheries, aquaculture and maritime value chains.

Cultural and tourism cooperation featured, including Portugal’s backing via the Calouste Gulbenkian Foundation for the restoration of Fort Jesus in Mombasa.

Education and cultural exchange were also on the agenda, with proposals for scholarships, vocational training and Portuguese language programmes.

Kenya expressed interest in developing a joint programme of activities to commemorate the diplomatic milestone and to set priorities for future cooperation.

Portugal’s upcoming term as a non‑permanent member of the United Nations Security Council for 2027‑2028 was noted during the talks.

The reopening of Portugal’s embassy in Nairobi in 2019 is seen as a catalyst for renewed economic engagement with Kenya and the wider East African region.