A burgeoning partnership between Kenya and France is blossoming as the French Development Agency (AFD) commits €2.2 million (Sh383.7 million) to cultivate robust growth in both agricultural and public finance sectors.

This multifaceted support, announced by French Ambassador to Kenya Arnaud Suquet, underscores a renewed commitment to fostering Kenyan economic prosperity and food security.

"France is renewing its support to the Kenyan Treasury through its expertise in debt management, a critical area in the current global context," declared Ambassador Suquet, acknowledging the criticality of this domain in the current global landscape.

The loan component of the funding directly bolsters the Treasury's efforts in this crucial area, strengthening its capacity to navigate public debt complexities while concurrently enhancing access to climate-friendly financing.

Beyond financial assistance, France extends its expertise to empower Kenyan agriculture.

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The €1 million grant fuels a comprehensive business acceleration program, elevating services and providing timely support for Kenyan SMEs operating in the agricultural sector.

This program features targeted training seminars, facilitated knowledge-sharing initiatives, and vital networking opportunities between Kenyan and French agricultural companies.

"We are launching an innovative project which is a concrete illustration of the renewed partnership between Kenya and France in the agricultural sector, which is a key sector for Kenya’s food sovereignty while contributing significantly to job creation," emphasized Ambassador Suquet, recognizing its significance in achieving food sovereignty and generating valuable employment opportunities for Kenyans.

AFD Deputy Director in Kenya, Anthea Mannaseh, echoed this sentiment, stating, "The infusion of French expertise in debt management and green public finance represents emblematic areas of cooperation for both France and Kenya."

This strategic collaboration, spearheaded by the French Innovation Cluster (Valorial) and Expertise France, carries the potential to be a transformative catalyst for growth.

By empowering Kenyan agriculture and ensuring responsible financial stewardship for the future, France and Kenya are cultivating a partnership that promises to nourish not just the Kenyan economy, but also the aspirations of its citizens for a more prosperous and sustainable future.