Colombia and Kenya Strengthen Economic Ties with Trade and Tourism Declarations

Colombian Vice Minister of Tourism Arturo Bravo (R) presents the declaration while accompanied by Vice President Francia Márquez (back middle). (Photo: Colombian MinCIT)

During the high-profile multi-country Colombian mission to Africa led by Vice President Francia Márquez, the first Afro-Colombian to hold the office finalized two declarations with Kenya aimed at strengthening trade and tourism ties between the two equatorial nations.

Formally named the Declaration of Intent for the Promotion of Sustainable Trade and Investment and the Declaration of Intent for the Promotion of Regenerative and Responsible Tourism, they may be a step toward the two nations establishing a wider agreement for permanent cooperation on trade, market access, sustainable investment, industrial development, and technology transfer, according to the Colombian Ministry of Trade, Industry, and Tourism (MinCIT).

In addition to these declarations, Colombia also formally signed three memorandums of understanding for the establishment of the joint commission for economic, technical, scientific, and cultural cooperation; gender equity and women’s empowerment; and South/South cooperation in cultural matters.

Governmental officials have pointed to Kenya as a nation that Colombia can learn from in terms of sustainable nature, wildlife, and eco-tourism, especially in terms of the potential to replicate a safari-like experience in remote pristine landscapes such as the Casanare region.

Kenya is also considered a global leader in terms of attracting foreign visitors to its robust national park system, an opportunity that Colombia has so far struggled to take advantage of.

For its part, Kenya has identified Colombia an ally in agricultural issues — especially in terms of its robust and mature coffee industry — as well as healthcare and medicine.