Expanding US-Kenya trade ties

The United States Trade and Development Agency is enthusiastic about expanding trade financing and investments in Kenya's digital and healthcare infrastructure. In a recent interview with CNBC Africa's Aby Agina, Enoh Ebong, Director of the US Trade and Development Agency, shared insights into the ongoing efforts to bolster trade ties between the US and Kenya. Ebong highlighted the significant progress made in infrastructure and financing discussions, emphasizing the commitment to taking tangible actions to move these projects forward. One of the key focuses of the summit is enhancing trade relations between the US and Africa, with specific attention given to supporting infrastructure development priorities. Ebong mentioned that several agreements had already been signed, with a particular emphasis on digital, healthcare, and clean energy infrastructure projects. The agency has been working to leverage US expertise to address the technical and financial needs of such projects across various sectors. Ebong cited examples of recent grants awarded for digital infrastructure initiatives aimed at improving connectivity in Kenya and the region. These grants include projects to establish a fiber optic network and deploy 5G-capable infrastructure, showcasing a dedication to enhancing business opportunities and economic growth through improved connectivity. When discussing the broader trade landscape between the US and Kenya, Ebong expressed optimism about growth potential, citing the success of initiatives like the African Growth and Opportunity Act (AGOA). He reiterated the agency's focus on supporting projects that increase trade facilitation, particularly in the digital and healthcare sectors, which play vital roles in driving economic growth and sustainable trade. Regarding the translation of deals into actionable projects, Ebong highlighted ongoing efforts to advance clean energy projects, such as expanding the capacity of the Capeto wind farm and integrating battery storage for long-term sustainability. He emphasized the crucial role of financing in enabling the realization of such projects, mentioning collaborations with the investor leadership network to attract institutional investors interested in clean energy and climate-focused initiatives. Overall, the interview showcased a strong commitment from the US Trade and Development Agency to strengthen trade ties with Kenya through strategic investments in key sectors like digital infrastructure, healthcare, and clean energy. The agency's focus on collaboration between public and private sectors underscores a holistic approach to driving sustainable economic development and facilitating trade growth.