This archive report was first published on 19 June 2020.
NAIROBI, KENYA: On Thursday, President Uhuru Kenyatta addressed concerns that the trade talks between Kenya and the United States could undermine the African Continental Free Trade Agreement (AfCFTA).
Speaking during a webinar hosted by the Atlantic Council, President Kenyatta emphasized that the trade deal with the US would instead assist the continent by creating a reference point for other African nations to negotiate bilateral arrangements within the AfCFTA framework.
"Kenya will be the first under the new AfCTA so we are going to be trailblazers in this and we hope that others will also follow-through," President Kenyatta said.
He noted that an FTA between the US and Kenya would reposition Kenya as a gateway for American investments into Africa, ultimately benefiting both countries.
"The essence of an FTA is an investment. Ultimately, I believe, Americans themselves will be able to say, why can't we just invest in Kenya and not only take advantage of Kenya but the region," the Head of State said.
President Kenyatta also emphasized that Kenya is seeking a win-win arrangement in the trade negotiations, which would benefit both Kenya and the US.
