A Vision for $5 Billion: Highlights from the IKCC Dinner
Thursday, 22nd January 2026, the India Kenya Chamber of Commerce (IKCC) hosted a landmark dinner at the Novotel Hotel — planned in honour of Ambassador Rahul Chhabra. The event was a resounding success, bringing together diplomats and industry captains to discuss a bold future for bilateral trade.
The evening was expertly guided by our Emcee, Mrs. Shubhrika Johary Mohitey, who facilitated a night of high-level networking and strategic dialogue.
Key Highlights:
A Roadmap to $5 Billion: A major focus of the night was the interactive discussion on the future of bi-lateral trade, with a shared commitment to increasing trade volume to USD 5 Billion. Trade Insights: Mr. John Mwendwa, OGW, CEO of KenInvest, shared critical perspectives on the investment landscape and the opportunities for growth between Kenya and India. Distinguished Addresses: Attendees heard from Mr. Abhishek Rana (Chairman, IKCC), Dr. Bimal Kantaria, EBS, OGW (MD, Elgon Kenya), and Mr. Sambasiva Rao Pamidimukkala, E.G.H. (Director, Alpharama). Diplomatic Vision: Dr. Adarsh Swaika, High Commissioner of India to Kenya, delivered a special address on the strength of our current partnership.
Spotlight: Ambassador Rahul ChhabraWe were deeply honored to have Ambassador Rahul Chhabra deliver a special address. A distinguished member of the 1987 batch of the Indian Foreign Service, Ambassador Chhabra brings a wealth of global experience to the table:
• Global Leadership: He formerly served as the Secretary (Economic Relations) in India’s Ministry of External Affairs, where he spearheaded India’s US $40 billion Development Partnership Program and guided EXIM Bank policies.
• Kenyan Ties: From November 2018 to June 2020, he served as the High Commissioner of India to Kenya, as well as the Permanent Representative to UNEP and UN-Habitat in Nairobi.
• International Reach: His 40-year career has spanned the globe, with assignments in China, the United States, France, Belgium, Senegal, the Philippines, and Hungary.
• Academic Excellence: An alumnus of St. Stephen’s College and the Delhi School of Economics, he also holds an MBA from IIM Calcutta, where he was placed on the Roll of Honour.
The night concluded with a vibrant Q&A and a Vote of Thanks by Ms. Harleen Jabbal, leaving all attendees inspired for the next chapter of Indo-Kenyan prosperity.
