King Willem-Alexander and Queen Máxima of the Netherlands recently visited Kenya on a three-day state tour, reinforcing the long-standing trade and diplomatic partnership between the two countries. Their trip highlighted Kenya’s growing role in sustainable floriculture, logistics, and economic cooperation with the Netherlands.
A major highlight of the visit was Naivasha, Kenya’s horticultural hub, where the royals explored innovations in sustainable flower production. At the Naivasha Inland Container Depot (ICD), they witnessed the first refrigerated flower shipment transported by rail, an initiative designed to transition exports from air to sea freight. Experts from FlowerWatch demonstrated advanced packaging techniques and a new “Quality Standard for Sea Freight,” ensuring that flowers maintain their freshness during transport. This shift aims to reduce carbon emissions while increasing efficiency in Kenya’s floriculture supply chain.
The couple also toured Florensis, a Dutch-owned young plant nursery operating in Kenya. They engaged with employees and explored the company’s advanced greenhouse technology, which features climate optimization and solar-powered systems. Florensis, with operations in Ethiopia, Portugal, and the Netherlands, is renowned for its commitment to sustainable cultivation practices.
Beyond farm visits, the royals met with representatives from the Kenya Flower Council, who outlined certification standards that enhance Kenya’s global reputation as a leading flower exporter. The discussions emphasized the importance of sustainability benchmarks that align with international market expectations.
Strengthening Economic Cooperation
The visit extended beyond floriculture, reinforcing broader trade relations between Kenya and the Netherlands. Kenya exports flowers, coffee, tea, and fresh produce to the Dutch market, while the Netherlands supplies Kenya with machinery, chemicals, and dairy products. A key event during the tour was the Netherlands Business Hub meeting, where a Kenyan delegation engaged in discussions with the royal couple and Dutch investors.
Foreign and Diaspora Affairs Cabinet Secretary Musalia Mudavadi emphasized the importance of strengthening strategic partnerships in horticulture, agriculture, and water management sectors where the Netherlands remains Kenya’s leading European trading partner. He reiterated Kenya’s commitment to fostering a dynamic business environment with tax policy predictability, streamlined regulations, and strong institutional frameworks to attract investors.
“With strong collaborations in trade, investment, and sustainable technologies, we explored new avenues to drive mutual prosperity,” Mudavadi stated.
The discussions convened key stakeholders, including Agriculture Cabinet Secretary Mutahi Kagwe, Principal Secretary for Investment Promotion Abubakar Hassan, and representatives from the Netherlands Business Hub. Industry leaders from both nations contributed to shaping a shared vision for sustainable economic growth.
The royal visit reaffirmed Kenya and the Netherlands’ shared commitment to sustainability, economic prosperity, and continued collaboration. With over 60 years of strong diplomatic and trade relations, both countries aim to build on their successes and explore new opportunities for the future.
