The Embassy plays an important role in the strong relationship between Ireland and Kenya.
Ireland and Kenya enjoy a warm relationship today which has developed over many years of close connections between our countries.
Ireland and Kenya share a long history of friendship and political co-operation which began with the establishment of Irish Missionary centres in Kenya. Both countries share a common and painful experience of colonization, struggle and liberalization, and both are committed to building free and democratic societies.
Kenyans acknowledge Ireland has a legacy of contribution in their country spanning over 100 years. The Irish missionary organisations established centres for education and health in many parts of Kenya. Among these are well known educational institutions such as Loreto College Limuru, St. Mary's College Nairobi, St Patrick's College Iten - and health facilities such as the Mater Hospital. In more recent years Irish Non-Governmental organisations such as Goal, Trócaire, Concern Worldwide, and Action Aid have contributed to humanitarian and development programmes in Kenya. Through Irish Aid, the Government of Ireland annually provides €6.5 million to NGOs working in Kenya.
Kenya and Nairobi is recognised as an important business and economic hub in East Africa. Kenya is a hugely important economic Centre which plays a leading role in the political, monetary and economic integration of the East African Community.
There are an increasing number of Irish companies that are doing business in Kenya and considerable growth in trade between the two countries. Trade statistics show that, trade between Ireland and Kenya has grown by 110% since 2005, from €22 million that year to €47 million in 2014.
In order to encourage and strengthen this relationship and increasing trade links between the two countries, the Kenyan Government opened an Embassy in Dublin in 2007.
The re-opening of an Irish Embassy in Kenya in October 2014 also signals the Irish Government's efforts to build mutually beneficial relationships with Kenya and to support the 2,000 or so Irish citizens who reside here.
