Kenya continues to deepen and strengthen its longstanding relationship with the Federal Republic of Germany.

Wednesday, the Speaker of the National Assembly, the Rt. Hon. Dr. Moses Masika Wetang'ula hosted the German Ambassador to Kenya, H.E. Sebastian Groth, at his office in Parliament Buildings, Nairobi.

During the meeting, Speaker Wetang'ula emphasized the importance of revitalizing the Kenya-German Parliamentary Friendship Group. “This group will serve as a vital platform for enhancing parliamentary diplomacy and bilateral cooperation between our two nations. Members of the Kenyan Friendship Group will undertake an official visit to their German counterparts later this year as part of this renewed collaboration,” he said.

The Speaker also acknowledged the deep-rooted ties between Kenya and Germany, noting that Germany was the first country to establish a diplomatic mission in Kenya post-independence.

On his part, Ambassador Groth reaffirmed Germany’s commitment to strengthening its partnership with Kenya across key sectors, including trade, agriculture, tourism, and education. He particularly highlighted ongoing scholarship programmes that support Kenyan students in studying the German language at the University of Nairobi and Kenyatta University.

The two leaders discussed potential collaboration on geothermal energy to boost electricity generation in Kenya. They also addressed migration issues, with a special focus on fast-tracking the German visa application process for Kenyans.

Speaker Wetang'ula further briefed the Ambassador on recent legislative progress, including the Conflict of Interest Bill, which has been passed by the National Assembly and is currently before the Senate, as well as the Anti-Money Laundering Bill which is under consideration.

They also explored opportunities for technological and defence cooperation, enhanced security partnerships, and the advancement of social transformation initiatives.

Additionally, the speaker assured the ambassador of the ongoing efforts to reconstitute the Independent Electoral and Boundaries Commission (IEBC) by August. This will pave the way for the conclusion of pending by-elections and lay the groundwork for the next general elections.