CBSK and Indian High Commission Discuss Strengthening Economic Diplomacy
The Chamber of Business Sector in Kenya (CBSK) National Executive Chairman and Chamber President, Dr. Samuel Waruathe, recently paid a courtesy visit to the Deputy High Commissioner and Deputy Permanent Representative of India to UNEP and UN-Habitat, Mr. Rohit Vadhwana.
During their conversation, Dr. Waruathe highlighted CBSK’s mission, vision, and commitment to the business community. He outlined several strategic engagements aimed at enhancing trade flows between Kenya and India, organizing and participating in inbound and outbound trade missions, fairs, and conferences, and promoting cultural and social diplomacy. Dr. Waruathe emphasized the importance of exchange programs between CBSK and other chambers, as well as strengthening private sector business partnerships between Kenya and India. He reiterated CBSK’s dedication to facilitating business opportunities and fostering economic growth.
The meeting was attended by CBSK National Executive Directors Mr. Joseph Mathenge, Advocate Kamoing’ Judith, who highlighted the need for a national arbitration center to advocate for business matters, Mr. Tutui Nanok, and Chief Executive Officer Ms. Penah Mutinda.
Mr. Vadhwana conveyed a warm welcome from H.E. Ms. Namgya C. Khampa and acknowledged the longstanding good relationship between Kenya and India. He emphasized the significance of this relationship, noting that over 100,000 Indians visit Kenya annually, and many have established businesses there, underscoring Kenya’s importance to India. He reiterated India’s commitment to promoting investment ventures in technology (IVT) and exploring new areas of engagement.
To better facilitate collaboration, he expressed interest in understanding the membership composition of CBSK and commended the chamber for representing all sectors, with the majority of its members based in Nairobi. Mr. Vadhwana anticipated tangible outcomes from the meeting and expressed eagerness to arrange interactions between Indian businesses and CBSK members. He assured that the Indian mission would oversee and support these meetings to ensure productive exchanges, mentioning that a meeting would be organized soon, with details to be shared with CBSK.
The Deputy High Commissioner encouraged Indians to invest in Kenya, noting that India is the second-largest investor in the country, showcasing strong economic ties. He stated that Kenyan citizens can easily apply for visas to India, ensuring the process is straightforward and affordable. He added that there are three flights a week to India, specifically mentioning flights to Mumbai and New Delhi, which are more affordable than domestic travel to Masai Mara.
He also highlighted that India provides educational grants for Kenyans studying in India through the Indian Technical and Economic Cooperation (ITEC) program and other business grants. These initiatives aim to strengthen bilateral relations and promote mutual growth and development.