Kenya Pushes for U.S. Trade Deal and AGOA Extension Amid Global Challenges

Kenya’s President William Ruto announced that his country expects to sign a trade deal with the United States by the end of 2025, while also urging Washington to extend the African Growth and Opportunity Act (AGOA) for at least five years. Speaking on the sidelines of the United Nations General Assembly in New York, Ruto emphasized that AGOA remains a vital framework for strengthening U.S.-Africa trade relations. The 25-year-old agreement, which provides duty-free access to African exports, is set to expire soon, raising concerns about its future.

Ruto noted that he plans to discuss AGOA with U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio, stressing that the platform helps reduce trade deficits and creates opportunities for both economies. However, uncertainty surrounds its renewal, especially after a bipartisan effort to extend it last year failed in Congress. The return of Donald Trump to the White House, along with his tariff-driven policies, has further complicated the outlook.

Despite these challenges, Ruto expressed optimism about bilateral talks, revealing that “good progress” has been made on a U.S.-Kenya trade agreement. In April, Trump imposed a 10% tariff on Kenyan goods, but Nairobi is seeking expanded access for textiles, apparel, tea, coffee, avocados, and new sectors such as mining and fisheries. If finalized, the agreement would mark the first U.S. trade pact with a sub-Saharan African nation.

Ruto also addressed regional and global security concerns. He highlighted Kenya’s involvement in Haiti, where armed gangs control most of Port-au-Prince, displacing over a million people. He urged the international community to provide more logistical, financial, and military support to the Kenyan-led mission. On the Democratic Republic of Congo, Ruto said discussions are planned involving the U.S., Qatar, and regional blocs to address ongoing conflict.

At a time when trade and security challenges intersect, Kenya is positioning itself as a key African partner for Washington.