US Acting Ambassador praises US-Kenya partnership at alumni fair

The continued partnership between the United States and Kenya was celebrated this week as the U.S.–Kenya Alumni Association held its inaugural Pamoja Fair in Nairobi.

Acting U.S. Ambassador Susan Burns graced the event, affirming the strong bilateral relationship. She praised the significant impact of U.S. exchange programs, which have benefited over 8,000 Kenyans, and highlighted Kenya’s critical role as a regional leader.

"Nairobi is East Africa’s Silicon Savannah, a place where fintech collides with fashion and where world-class enterprises thrive,” Burns stated. She also commended Kenya’s vital contributions to global diplomacy and regional peace.

The fair successfully convened over 500 alumni from various U.S. exchange programs, including the Mandela Washington Fellowship, Fulbright, and Tech Women. These professionals have returned home to lead innovation across multiple sectors.

Benson Abila, President of the U.S.–Kenya Alumni Association, emphasized the "life-changing" impact these exchange beneficiaries have had both in Kenya and globally.

A major highlight of the fair was the unveiling of the “60 Alumni Stories” showcase, which featured groundbreaking enterprises and initiatives developed by alumni who are actively shaping Kenya’s future. The event also featured conversations focused on sustainability and trade.

The Pamoja Fair served as a powerful testament to the success of decades of investment in people-to-people connections, reinforcing the commitment to strengthening the U.S.-Kenya partnership for the next 60 years.