On 22^nd November 2023, KEPSA, led by the CEO Ms Carole Kariuki led the Kenyan private sector at the India – Kenya Business Forum that was held in Nairobi on the auspices of the visit of a business delegation from India led by Hon. V. Muraleedharan - Minister of State for External Affairs and Parliamentary Affairs. The event was graced by Hon. Rebecca Miano - Cabinet Secretary for Investment, Trade and Industry.

In his remarks, Hon. Muraleedharan said that there are synergies and potential between both countries. He said that India is known for its vibrant culture, innovation, business, and investment opportunities, which await to be harnessed. “It is notable that Kenya's geographical location and robust infrastructure offer unparalleled access to regional markets fostering trade and investment. We hope to write a new chapter of mutual prosperity and success,” noted Hon. Muraleedharan.

Hon. Miano, on her part, recognized the long-standing people-to-people relations of the two nations which dates back to before 1983 when Kenya and India signed a bilateral agreement. She urged investors to steer the course of progress of the two nations not just in projects but also in legacies that transcend into business cooperation. “Closer cooperation can transform and embellish our fortune for the good of all people,” she remarked.

The event also saw the launch of the India-Kenya Business Council which aims to provide a structured platform to fortify bilateral relations and foster increased investments in both Kenya and India while at the same time fostering a balanced trade relationship between the two nations. The Council will also facilitate the exchange of valuable information on business and encourage joint ventures and technology transfer.

Ms. Kariuki, in her remarks, pointed out that Kenyan businesses can learn a lot from the Indian businesses, many of which are family-owned. This, she said, includes the culture and the importance of creating and building partnerships. She also talked of the upward trajectory India has taken in various sectors like the tech and innovation industry. “When we talk about tech and innovation, India stands as the capital. It's crucial for us to remain connected, as we have in previous decades, to ensure that we move forward together,” she added.

The KEPSA CEO also noted that through initiatives like Startup India, KEPSA aspires to help SMEs grow, while addressing trade imbalance by creating value chains and providing training on how to do business in both countries. She said that the goal is to link startups, enabling them to learn from each other and fostering mutually beneficial relationships.

The Head of delegation of the Confederation of Indian Industry (CII) Ms. Renu Vij noted that the visit provided a chance for Indian businesses to understand the investment scenario and gain a deeper understanding of Kenyan development progress. He said that CII has actively promoted trade and investment between the two countries while giving examples of the opportunities that have risen out of it including the collaboration with Kisumu County to achieve bone marrow transplant.

Other leaders who spoke at the event include H.E. Namgya Khampa - High Commission of India to Kenya, Mr. Puneet Kundal - Joint Secretary Ministry of External Affairs Government of India and Eng. John Tanui- Principal Secretary, State Department for ICT and Digital Economy. The event was attended by distinguished business leaders from both Kenya and India.