Nairobi: The government has reaffirmed its commitment to strengthening bilateral ties with Iran in a bid to boost the agricultural sector and expand trade opportunities. Agriculture Principal Secretary Dr. Kipronoh Ronoh said the initiative will bolster Kenya’s agricultural exports while meeting Iran’s demand for high-quality Kenyan produce.
According to Kenya News Agency, Dr. Ronoh made the remarks today at Kilimo House, Nairobi, when he hosted Iranian Ambassador to Kenya Dr. Ali Gholampour. “We explored ways of enhancing Kenya-Iran relations and strategies to expand agricultural trade,” said Dr. Ronoh.
Ronoh stated that the key focus areas included increasing exports of Kenyan produce such as tea and coffee to Iran, where there is significant demand. “Iran has historically been a major importer of Kenyan tea, but trade between the two nations faced disruptions in 2021 due to various challenges, and now the renewed partnership aims to address these obstacles, particularly the surplus of unsold tea in Kenyan auctions, by reviving the Iranian market,” he added.
Consequently, the PS noted that both parties agreed on an urgent trade mission to Iran to finalize arrangements and ensure the smooth resumption of trade. The collaboration highlights Kenya’s ongoing efforts to support the agriculture sector and diversify export markets.