Nairobi: Egyptian Ambassador to Kenya Hatem Yousry has emphasized the strategic importance of strengthening economic and diplomatic relations between Egypt and Kenya, pointing out the evolving direction of Egypt’s foreign policy under the guidance of Minister of Foreign Affairs Badr Abdelatty.
According to State Information Service Egypt, Ambassador Yousry underscored Egypt-Kenya relations as central to Egypt’s national security and regional objectives. He highlighted that Egypt’s foreign policy is geared towards balancing international relations while advancing its national interests, especially in economic and strategic sectors.
Ambassador Yousry highlighted the priority of economic cooperation with Kenya, noting the country’s role as a vital gateway for Egyptian exports to East and Central Africa. He emphasized Kenya’s geographical significance for enhancing Egypt’s regional presence.
In the past six months, from September 2025 to March 2026, the Egyptian embassy in Nairobi welcomed over 37 Egyptian delegations from various sectors, including government, business, and sports. This increased engagement signifies Egypt’s commitment to deepening bilateral ties with Kenya.
The diplomat remarked on Egypt’s significant participation in the COMESA Investment Forum in Nairobi from March 24-27, 2026. Egypt led the African delegation, comprising officials, parliamentarians, and over 18 businessmen from Egypt’s Young Businessmen Association across sectors like food industries, textiles, energy, and information technology.
Ambassador Yousry noted Kenya’s strategic position as a regional hub for East and Central Africa, facilitating Egyptian exports to the region via the Suez-Mombasa shipping route. Trade between Egypt and Kenya reached dlrs 540 million in 2024, with Egypt maintaining a trade surplus of approximately dlrs 150 million.
Furthermore, Egypt and Kenya’s shared membership in COMESA allows for duty-free trade, creating new collaboration opportunities. On the investment front, he highlighted the expanding presence of Egyptian companies in Kenya, including the Commercial International Bank (CIB), Wadi Degla, and the Arab Group.
He revealed that Egypt is exploring new opportunities in sectors such as healthcare, construction, energy, and civil aviation. Looking forward, Ambassador Yousry reaffirmed Egypt’s determination to deepen its economic and trade presence in Kenya, focusing on industrial zones, capacity building, and training.
He stressed the Egyptian embassy’s role in supporting Egyptian investors and facilitating business partnerships. Through collaboration with the private sector and regional organizations, Egypt aims to enhance its economic ties with Kenya, contributing to mutual growth and prosperity.