Biden warns graft hampering American investments in Kenya

President William Ruto and the President of the United States of America Joe Biden during a joint Press Conference at the White House, Washington, D.C on May 23, 2024. [PCS, Standard]

The United States (US) President Joe Biden's administration, led by his Trade Representative Katherine Tai, has raised concerns about the persistent corruption in Kenya, which it believes is hindering American investments in East Africa's largest economy and a strategic ally of Washington.

Despite Kenya's status as an Agoa (African Growth and Opportunity Act) eligible country and its efforts to maintain a market-based economy and attract huge foreign direct investments, the Office of the US Trade Representative (USTR) pointed to corruption as a major barrier to American businesses looking to expand their footprint in the Kenyan market.