Kenya and Australia are set to deepen bilateral cooperation through parliamentary diplomacy, with a focus on expanding collaboration in mining, trade, and investment.
Speaking at Parliament Buildings on Thursday, Hon. Moses Wetang’ula, said that the two countries would continue strengthening their long-standing relations while exploring new partnership opportunities.
Hon. Wetang’ula spoke when he hosted Jenny Da Rin, during talks aimed at enhancing cooperation, particularly in the mining sector.
The Speaker noted that Australia possesses advanced mining technology supported by strong legislation, adding that Kenya could benefit from closer collaboration.
“Kenya has made significant strides in establishing the Mining Act, and high-level collaboration between the two countries in the mining sector is highly encouraged,” he said.
He added that the National Assembly has established the Kenya–Australia Parliamentary Friendship Group to promote parliamentary diplomacy and strengthen engagement with the Parliament of Australia.
Hon. Wetang’ula said Kenya has also benefited from Australia’s flexible student visa policies and scholarship programmes that have enabled many Kenyans to pursue higher education in Australia.
“During our engagement, we agreed to continue strengthening parliamentary diplomacy between the two nations through regular collaboration between our parliamentary friendship groups,” he said.
He further noted that the Australian Trade and Investment Commission relocated its regional hub from South Africa to Nairobi in 2017, signaling growing economic ties between the two countries.
Several collaborative agricultural research initiatives are also underway. The Australian Centre for International Agricultural Research has partnered with Kenyan institutions, including the Kenya Forestry Research Institute and the Kenya Agricultural and Livestock Research Organization, to promote climate-smart agriculture and improve crop productivity through drought-resistant varieties.
A Sh287 million re-greening project launched in February 2025 aims to support land restoration and strengthen resilient agriculture.
Ambassador Da Rin said the relations between Kenya and Australia remain strong but noted the need for deeper engagement.
“I encourage officials from the two countries to continue engaging for the benefit of our nations. This will bolster parliamentary diplomacy and enhance economic cooperation,” she said.
She added that Australia remains committed to supporting Kenyan students seeking higher education in Australian Universities.
According to records from the Ministry of Foreign and Diaspora Affairs and the Ministry of Investments, Trade and Industry, Kenya exported goods worth about $35.3 million to Australia in 2023, while imports stood at $118 million, largely favouring Australia.
Kenya’s exports include tea, coffee, fish products, cut flowers, and hides, while imports from Australia comprise wheat, grain sorghum, specialised machinery, and telecommunications equipment.
By Anthony Solly
