Kenya and Turkey have fostered a longstanding relationship, marked by diplomatic ties, trade agreements, and economic cooperation. These bilateral relations date back to the 16th century, when both nations engaged in trade. Over the years, their collaboration has strengthened, especially in sectors such as agriculture, tourism, education, health, and science and technology.
The relationship between the two countries has continued to thrive through high-level official visits, with significant milestones such as President Uhuru Kenyatta’s visit to Turkey in 2014 and President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan’s visit to Kenya in 2016. In recent years, trade has been a central focus of the partnership, with Turkey looking to expand its presence in East Africa, while Kenya seeks to tap into the Turkish market for exports like tea, coffee, and flowers.
This article delves into the evolution of Kenya-Turkey relations, highlighting key developments, official visits, and trade dynamics between the two nations.
Historical Background of Kenya-Turkey Relations
The diplomatic and trade relations between Kenya and Turkey began in earnest during the 16th century, with the early exchange of goods. However, it was in 1968 when Turkey opened its embassy in Nairobi, that formal diplomatic ties were established between the two nations. Over the years, the bilateral relationship has expanded, with multiple visits by Kenyan and Turkish leaders.
Notable Diplomatic Visits
1. President Daniel arap Moi’s Visit to Turkey (1996)
Kenya’s former president, Daniel arap Moi, visited Turkey in 1996, marking an early high point in Kenya-Turkey relations. The visit helped to solidify political ties and laid the foundation for future cooperation in areas like trade and cultural exchange.
2. President Abdullah Gül’s Visit to Kenya (2009)
In February 2009, Turkish President Abdullah Gül made the first-ever trip by a Turkish head of state to Kenya. This visit deepened the relationship, with both countries agreeing to prioritize cooperation in key sectors such as tourism, trade, and development.
3. President Uhuru Kenyatta’s Visit to Turkey (2014)
In April 2014, President Uhuru Kenyatta visited Turkey and met President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan. This visit was pivotal in the relationship between the two countries, as it saw the signing of ten bilateral agreements, which focused on industrialization, agriculture, and the development of arid lands. The visit reinforced the commitment to mutual cooperation and laid out future plans for joint development initiatives.
4. President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan’s Visit to Kenya (2016)
In June 2016, President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan visited Kenya, where he met with President Uhuru Kenyatta to discuss trade, tourism, and industrial collaboration. The visit also highlighted Turkey’s efforts to establish itself as a key partner in the East African region, emphasizing Turkey’s support for Kenya’s development.
Trade and Economic Cooperation
Trade between Kenya and Turkey has evolved steadily over the years. In 2013, the bilateral trade volume reached $145 million. The trade balance has favored Turkey, but both countries have made significant strides toward economic balance.
Trade Statistics and Trends
- Exports from Turkey to Kenya:
In 2012, Turkey’s exports to Kenya were valued at $138 million, with a notable increase of 1607% from 2002. Turkish goods range from construction materials to consumer goods, and Turkish companies, especially in the construction sector, have established a strong presence in Kenya. - Exports from Kenya to Turkey:
Kenya, on the other hand, exported goods worth $17 million in 2012, with tea, coffee, and flowers being some of the primary exports to Turkey. The trade volume from Kenya has seen an impressive increase, up 781% from 2002. - Trade Surplus:
In 2012, the trade surplus with Turkey was $120.1 million, showing a 53.5% decrease compared to 2011. This decrease signals an improved balance in the trading relationship between the two countries.
Key Sectors for Trade Growth
Kenya is targeting Turkey as a major buyer of its key exports, including agricultural products like tea, coffee, and flowers. Additionally, Kenya has expressed interest in selling other goods to Turkey as part of its export diversification plan. This reflects Kenya’s broader goal to tap into new markets for its products, leveraging Turkey’s growing economic influence.
On the other hand, Turkey has been working on expanding its footprint in the East African region, with Nairobi as its base. The Turkey-Kenya Joint Trade Commission has been instrumental in promoting trade between the two nations, and discussions have centered around establishing an Export Processing Zone in Nairobi, which could further boost trade.
Development Cooperation
Turkey has shown a keen interest in Kenya’s economic growth and has been supporting the country’s efforts to develop key sectors. For example, Turkey’s International Cooperation and Development Fund (ICDF) has been involved in supporting WASH (Water, Sanitation, and Hygiene) programs in drought-affected regions of Kenya, such as Garissa County. This cooperation is essential for addressing the challenges faced by communities in arid lands and promoting sustainable development in Kenya.
Turkey’s efforts to invest in East Africa align with Kenya’s broader economic strategies. Kenya has been recognized as an important player in the East African region, and Turkey views the country as a strategic partner in accessing the Grand Free Trade Area that includes the East African Community (EAC) and Comesa.
Future Outlook
Kenya and Turkey have outlined a shared vision to increase their bilateral trade to $500 million, demonstrating both countries’ commitment to expanding their economic partnership. By focusing on sectors like agriculture, industrialization, and infrastructure development, the two nations aim to create sustainable growth opportunities for their populations.
In conclusion, Kenya-Turkey relations continue to evolve, with significant progress in trade, development cooperation, and diplomatic ties. Both nations are working to deepen their relationship and explore new areas of collaboration, positioning themselves for future success in a rapidly changing global landscape.
