Who We Are

Business Ireland Kenya (BIK)

Business Ireland Kenya (BIK) is Ireland’s premier Business Chamber in Kenya working to promote trade, investment and commercial activity between the Republic of Kenya and Ireland.

We facilitate business networking opportunities for our members by providing a platform and support structure for sharing information on business experiences in Kenya and Ireland. This includes local context and knowledge, opportunities, challenges and the implications of doing business in Kenya and Ireland.

BIK’s History

Business Ireland Kenya (BIK) was established in 2013 during a visit by Ireland’s former Minister of Trade and Development and the re-opening of Ireland’s embassy in Nairobi.

BIK formalised a platform supporting a growing Irish business community in Kenya who met to discuss challenges and opportunities to commercial dealings between these two countries. Since, the chamber has developed into a major business organisation in Nairobi and noted convener of high-profile events.

Today, we hold a range of events and webinars to promote business development including our Quarterly Breakfast Briefings organised around trending topics and keynote speakers. BIK membership is open to Kenyan, Irish and international businesses whose work promotes trade between the two countries.

Leadership

BIK is led by a voluntary Steering Committee elected annually during the Annual General Meeting as well as two additional volunteer officers from the membership.

The elected positions include: the Chair, Vice Chair, Treasurer, Assistant Treasurer, Secretary and the Assistant Secretary.

Some members of the 2025 Steering Committee — From L-R George Mealy, Declan Galvin, Katherine Muldoon, Denis Etienne, Samuel Kisuu

Ireland-Kenya Relationship

The relationship between Ireland and Kenya is built on a shared history of cooperation and mutual respect. Both countries have a legacy of overcoming challenges, including colonisation, and have committed to building free, democratic societies.

Over the years, Ireland has contributed significantly to Kenya’s development through education, healthcare, and humanitarian efforts. The strong ties between the two nations have also fostered growing trade relations, with Irish businesses investing in key sectors such as agriculture, technology, and healthcare in Kenya, while Kenyan exports continue to thrive in the Irish market.

This enduring partnership continues to evolve, creating opportunities for further collaboration and growth.

Growing Business Links

The business ties between Ireland and Kenya have been steadily growing, driven by strong economic cooperation, trade agreements, and mutual interests in key sectors like agriculture, ICT, and renewable energy. Ireland has increasingly seen Kenya as a strategic partner in East Africa, with Kenyan businesses benefiting from access to the European Union market.

Similarly, Irish businesses are investing more in Kenya, attracted by its young, skilled workforce, growing infrastructure, and increasing consumer demand. This growing economic relationship is supported by both governments, who are committed to strengthening trade links and promoting investment through collaborative initiatives and policy reforms.

Embassy Establishment

The Embassy of Ireland in Kenya plays a critical role in fostering bilateral relations, providing essential services to Irish citizens, and supporting Irish businesses operating in Kenya.

Established as part of Ireland’s diplomatic mission, the embassy serves as a bridge to strengthen political, economic, and cultural ties between the two countries. It helps facilitate diplomatic dialogue, supports development initiatives, and promotes Ireland as a partner for sustainable growth in Kenya. The embassy’s presence enhances cooperation in areas such as trade, humanitarian aid, and education, contributing to the deepening relationship between Kenya and Ireland.

Trade Links Between Ireland and Kenya

Irish businesses have been operating in Kenya for many years, recognising the opportunities available in the country.

Through population growth, increased development, economic strength, and changing consumption patterns, Kenya has become an attractive country for increased investment and trading relationships with Ireland.

Trade between the two countries has grown significantly in recent years amounting to €77 million as at 2023 and is expected to grow in the future.

Irish companies continue to work in the country while Kenyan businesses are beginning to trade in Ireland through the export of locally produced products.

Each year, we produce guides to help those interested in taking part in this two-way trade better understand their market of interest.