Text and photos: Juan David Latorre
Last Friday, the Kenyan Embassy, led by Ambassador Nairimas Sharon Ole-Sein, celebrated Kenya’s National Day, also known as Jamhuri Day.
After noting Kenya’s aspirations to become a “prosperous global economy, empowered by industrialization, innovation, strong governments, and a sustainable economy,” Ambassador Nairimas Sharon emphasized that her country’s priority this year is “to put citizens at the heart of the economy by transforming agriculture, improving digital infrastructure, strengthening universal healthcare, and creating new opportunities for homeless children.”
“These efforts,” the ambassador continued, “with determination and economic progress, are inclusive, reaching families, communities, and businesses across our cultures. This also reinforces our mission of real resilience, reducing inequality, and creating new opportunities for innovation. We are investing in a global economic transformation, but also in the growth of the mainstream economy.”
The Kenyan ambassador then referred to the 60 years of diplomatic cooperation between the European Union and Spain, established in 1965. “Over the past 60 years,” she noted, “our cooperation has evolved into a shared and multiplied relationship, based on shared values, mutual respect, and empathy. Our collaboration supports a wide range of sectors, including rural energy, tourism, education, cultural exchange, maritime business, and therefore, investment and trade. Spanish companies continue to contribute expert infrastructure, engineering, and technology, while Spanish travelers enrich our tourism sector.” The ambassador recalled that in October 2022, the first official visit of a Spanish Prime Minister, Pedro Sánchez, to Kenya took place, “which expanded all of Spain’s investment in trade, rural energy, security, and cultural outreach. Kenyan President William Ruto also participated in a conference in Seville.”
Regarding the Kenyan community residing in Spain, Ambassador Nairimas Sharon noted that “it contributes to agreements through its talent, professionalism, and culture, broadening the understanding between our two countries. Its presence has strengthened the foundation upon which the next 60 years of Kenya’s reinvention will unfold. These years have been driven by tourism, agricultural conservation, and the maintenance of incentives, conferences, and institutions as hallmarks of sustainable growth, focused on sectors of national identity and economic transformation.”
“Kenya is a global destination, and we are delighted to welcome all visitors to Kenya for its rich culture, heritage, and gastronomy. More than 8% of our land has been designated as national parks. In this regard, Kenya’s leadership in global environmental awareness offers an excellent opportunity for enhanced collaboration in biodiversity, nature tourism, and climate research. Kenya has established itself as one of the most beneficial countries for international diplomacy, offering its capital city and rural areas, as well as numerous programs, services, and conferences. I invite all Spanish associations and academic institutions to consider our country for the organization of future international cooperation,” the ambassador stated.
The Kenyan ambassador concluded her remarks by noting that “our independence was a great sacrifice, and our continued progress has been demonstrated by the collaboration between our people and throughout the world. Kenya is ready to collaborate, expand its partnerships, and embrace new opportunities that will advance prosperity between our nations.”
