Kenya faces a significant risk of losing billions in potential Gulf investments unless the government addresses persistent issues of corruption, bureaucracy, and outdated systems, according to industry experts.

• Trade between Kenya and the UAE reached Sh445 billion in 2023.
• Dr. Esther Muchemi, Chair of the Gulf-Africa Investment Nexus (GAIN), highlighted that Gulf investors have liquidity but face critical barriers in entering Kenya.
• Stakeholders at the Gulf-Africa Investment Summit cited lengthy documentation, restrictive regulations, and a lack of information as major impediments.
• Princes Mutisya, CEO of GAIN, emphasized the need to address trade barriers and mistrust to unlock financing for Kenyan businesses.
• Martin Chomba, Chair of the Petroleum Outlets Association of Kenya, noted that Gulf firms possess the capacity and technology to boost Kenya’s oil and gas industry if hurdles are removed.