India-Kenya Business Council Hosts a Successful Breakfast Meeting to Strengthen Bilateral Trade Ties
The India-Kenya Business Council (IKBC) successfully hosted its Breakfast Meeting on Saturday, March 15, 2025, bringing together industry leaders, policymakers, and key stakeholders to discuss the future of India-Kenya trade relations. The event served as a dynamic platform for insightful discussions, fostering collaborations, and strengthening economic partnerships between the two nations.
The meeting commenced with a Welcome Address by Mr. Abhishek Rana, Chairman of IKBC. Mr. Rana appreciated the IKBC Members who have been engaging with the organization since 2023 and promised them that there is many more networking, trade and investment opportunities upcoming for 2025.
Dr. Bimal Kantaria, Advisory Forum- IKBC next delivered the Opening Remarks and he highlighted the vision of IKBC which is to strengthen not only the position of India into Kenya but a chance for Indian Kenyans to invest and interact with Indian business fraternity. Thus, grow both economies at larger scales.
The Keynote Speaker, Mr. Jas Bedi, Chairman - KEPROBA, delivered an engaging session on "Unlocking the Next Phase of India-Kenya Trade: Navigating Emerging Opportunities and Addressing Key Challenges." His insights highlighted the evolving business landscape, emerging trade prospects, and the crucial role of policy frameworks in enhancing bilateral economic growth. He urged the audience to see the potential of Kenya in increasing its trade relations beyond bilateral. “There is much opportunity in innovation and with the support of India, Kenya can certainly be an icon and business example for Africa,” he concluded.
Guest Speaker, Mr. T.R.M. Ramamurthy, IPS Kenya Limited, addressed the healthcare sector’s potential in his talk on "The Power of Pharmaceuticals: Enhancing Healthcare Access Through India-Kenya Partnerships." He emphasized the critical role of India-Kenya collaborations in improving pharmaceutical accessibility and fostering advancements in the healthcare industry. His passion for preventative medicine and healthcare supported his quest to provide first class healthcare to Africa just like Europe or the USA. His determination to have Africa lead in the cancer race for a wider range of affordable medication was commendable.
A special moment during the event was when Mr. Vinay Rathi, Managing Director of Bank of Baroda Kenya, had the honor of introducing a dear friend to the Outgoing Deputy High Commissioner, Mr. Rohit Vadhwana. Mr. Rathi expressed heartfelt appreciation for Mr. Vadhwana’s unwavering support for the Indian community in Kenya, highlighting his friendly approach and deep commitment to social initiatives.
As a token of gratitude, Mr. Abhishek Rana, Chairman of IKBC, presented Mr. Vadhwana with a specially curated memento reflecting his passion for golf. Clearly moved by the gesture, Mr. Vadhwana shared his emotions and excitement about his next assignment as the youngest Ambassador of India to the Plurinational State of Bolivia. In his farewell remarks, he extended a warm invitation to his colleagues and friends from Kenya, encouraging them to visit Bolivia and strengthen global ties. He mentioned the journey of how the registration process of India Kenya Business Council was significant for a longer term and more formal relationship between India and Kenya. He shared his success and achievements at the High Commission of India in service of better facilitation for visa applicants and guests to the High Commission.
Mr. Sushil Prasad, the Incoming Deputy High Commissioner of India & DPR to UNEP & UN-Habitat, expressed his heartfelt gratitude for the warm and overwhelming welcome from the audience. Reflecting on his previous posting in Copenhagen, Denmark, he noted the distinct warmth and hospitality of Kenya, which left a lasting impression. Mr. Prasad emphasized his commitment to strengthening the High Commission’s role, fostering economic growth, and advancing social initiatives. With great enthusiasm, he looks forward to building upon the strong India-Kenya partnership during his tenure.
The event concluded with a Vote of Thanks delivered by Mr. Sanjeev Sehgal, Hon. Secretary - IKBC, who expressed gratitude to all the distinguished speakers, participants, and stakeholders for their valuable contributions. The appreciation extended to the sponsors, ADONIS, Elgon Kenya, RSM Eastern Africa LLP, Bank of Barorda (Kenya) Ltd and Prime Bank Ltd.
The IKBC Breakfast Meeting reinforced the shared commitment of India and Kenya to economic growth, trade expansion, and sectoral partnerships, paving the way for new collaborations and business opportunities.
About IKBC:
The India-Kenya business council is a bridge to exchange information on business, import- export, joint ventures, technology transfers, contract manufacturing tie up and other business opportunities in various sectors as well as investment promotion in both the countries.
The Council is putting efforts to take full advantage of Economic Cooperation Agreement between the countries and organize various activities to facilitate business atmosphere and create awareness for better business growth and investment promotion.
India Kenya Business Council