Kenya and Ireland are set to negotiate a structured framework that will allow Kenyan nurses and midwives to work in Ireland, Foreign and Diaspora Affairs Cabinet Secretary Musalia Mudavadi has announced. Speaking during St. Patrick’s Day celebrations in Nairobi, Mudavadi said Kenya values Ireland as a strong partner and looks forward to the completion of the labour mobility agreement.
"Kenya regards Ireland as a valued partner and true friend. We take pride in our diverse and multifaceted partnership, which spans a wide range of priority sectors of mutual interest and we appreciate continued support in strengthening initiatives in food security, climate resilience, governance, and humanitarian assistance," Mudavadi stated.
The celebrations, marking the legacy of Ireland’s patron saint, St. Patrick, also highlight the enduring values of faith, unity, and resilience that the saint represents. Among those attending was Christopher O’Sullivan, Ireland’s Minister of State for Nature, Heritage and Biodiversity.
Mudavadi emphasized the strong people-to-people ties between the two nations, citing the contributions of Irish missionaries and non-governmental organizations.
"I note with satisfaction that our relationship is marked by robust and thriving people-to-people exchanges through the activities of missionaries, initiatives by Irish non-governmental organisations, and bridge-building by the vibrant diaspora communities in both countries," he said.
He added that Irish missionaries have played an integral role in Kenya for more than a century, supporting the development of schools and hospitals and providing essential services in underserved communities.
On education and innovation, Mudavadi highlighted Ireland’s support for the Young Scientists Kenya Programme, which has opened doors for thousands of students, nurturing creativity and providing international recognition.
He also noted Kenya and Ireland’s cooperation in multilateral fora, including their joint tenure on the United Nations Security Council in 2021 and 2022, where they championed peace, human dignity, and the Sustainable Development Goals.
"We are keen on strengthening collaboration in the multilateral sphere especially in the context of uncertainties in the current global order. As we commemorate Ireland’s National Day, Kenya reaffirms its commitment to deepening friendship and cooperation with Ireland for the benefit of our two friendly nations and the well-being of our peoples," Mudavadi assured.
The CS also highlighted the contributions of Irish NGOs such as Concern Worldwide, which have supported Kenya’s development through projects in health, nutrition, education, and poverty alleviation. He further acknowledged the role of the Kenya Irish Society in fostering cultural and philanthropic ties, creating opportunities for both communities to share traditions and strengthen bonds.
Kenya and Ireland established diplomatic relations in 1979 and have maintained strong ties through mutual respect, shared values, and a commitment to sustainable development. Mudavadi expressed gratitude for the growth in bilateral relations over the past decade, particularly following the opening of Kenya’s embassy in Dublin in 2007 and the reopening of the Irish Embassy in Nairobi in 2014.
