At least 2,000 Kenyans are set to gain new employment upon completion of a manufacturing plant of the Korean textile company, YongWan, in Kenya.
Speaking when he met the Kenya-Korea Parliamentary Friendship Group, the Ambassador of the Republic of Korea to Kenya, Kang Hyungshik, announced that the construction of the plant was nearing completion.
This is just one of the many initiatives that the Asian country is implementing in Kenya, as the two countries continue to pursue matters of mutual interest to solidify trade and diplomatic relations.
The two nations are also working towards partnering in the maritime sector.
“We are also keen on partnerships in the Blue Economy and Maritime sectors, including sea farming and shipbuilding, as well as in water and irrigation projects through development aid and cooperation,” he stated.
“This is only the beginning. We look forward to building a longstanding, dynamic partnership between Korea and Kenya.”
To make strong strides towards bolstering this sector, the country will be hosting the 11th United Nations Ocean Conference set to take place in Mombasa in 2026.
Malindi MP Amina Mnyazi highlighted the implications of this great honour, as Kenya would be the first African country to host such an event, presenting a unique opportunity all around.
“Twenty years ago, our economies were at par. Today, Korea is among the largest economies globally. We must learn from their model and enhance our relationship, particularly through economic and knowledge exchange,” she stated.
Other lawmakers also outlined several other areas of collaboration with Korea, including Mwea's Mary Maingi, who noted, "We have a strong base in agriculture, with institutions such as KEMRI and plans for a botanical garden and graduate institute."
"Exim Bank is also exploring opportunities in Kenya. On the textile front, we hope to revive our cotton ginnery to provide a foundation for industrial partnership," he added.
