By Issa Hussein - Reporter
Kenya, 4 July 2026 - Kenya is seeking to deepen its strategic partnership with Saudi Arabia through expanded cooperation in trade, investment, labour mobility, technology, and security, Prime Cabinet Secretary and Cabinet Secretary for Foreign and Diaspora Affairs Musalia Mudavadi has said.
Mudavadi made the remarks after meeting staff at the Kenya Embassy in Riyadh, led by Ambassador Joseph Masila, to review preparations for the inaugural Kenya–Saudi Arabia Political Consultations, which conclude on Saturday.
The Prime Cabinet Secretary and Foreign Affairs CS said Kenya's diplomatic missions play a critical role in advancing the country's national interests, creating economic opportunities and protecting the welfare of Kenyans living abroad.
"The consultations are expected to strengthen Kenya–Saudi Arabia relations by expanding cooperation in trade, investment, labour mobility, technology, and peace and security," Mudavadi said.
A key focus of the talks is improving opportunities for skilled Kenyan workers seeking employment in Saudi Arabia while enhancing the welfare, safety and protection of thousands of Kenyans already living and working in the Gulf nation.
Saudi Arabia has become one of Kenya's most important labour destinations, hosting tens of thousands of Kenyan migrant workers employed in domestic work, healthcare, hospitality, construction and other sectors. The relationships are made stronger because it is in Saudi Arabia that Muslim pilgrims visit the Holy City of Mecca.
The Kingdom is also Kenya's second-largest source of diaspora remittances after the United States,making it a key partner in the government's efforts to leverage labour migration as a driver of economic growth. Diaspora remittances remain one of Kenya's leading sources of foreign exchange, supporting millions of households and contributing significantly to the country's economy.
Mudavadi said the government is committed to using diplomacy to unlock new markets for Kenyan businesses, attract foreign investment and create employment opportunities for citizens both at home and abroad.
He noted that stronger diplomatic engagement with strategic partners such as Saudi Arabia is essential in ensuring Kenya's foreign policy delivers tangible economic and social benefits.
The consultations are also expected to provide a framework for enhanced collaboration on regional peace and security, technological partnerships and investment promotion, reflecting the growing strategic relationship between Nairobi and Riyadh.
Kenya has in recent years intensified engagement with Gulf states as part of its economic diplomacy agenda, seeking to expand trade, increase investment flows and negotiate better labour agreements aimed at safeguarding the rights and welfare of Kenyan workers overseas.
The efforts have been successful despite a few isolated cases here and there, with authorities urging job seekers to beware of fraudulent agents.
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