The United States House of Representatives has passed a bill extending the African Growth and Opportunity Act (AGOA) for three more years, a move hailed as a critical milestone in U.S.–Africa trade relations.
Renewed Confidence for Kenya’s Textile Sector
In Kenya, the textile and apparel industries within Export Processing Zones (EPZs) employ over 80,000 people directly and an additional 250,000 indirectly.
The extension of AGOA is expected to ease uncertainty that had clouded the sector, paving the way for renewed confidence, expansion, and job creation.
Government Targets Diversified Exports
Investments, Trade, and Industry Cabinet Secretary Lee Kinyanjui welcomed the development, noting that Kenya intends to broaden its export basket under AGOA beyond textiles.
“We are in discussions on a bilateral trade agreement that will cover other key sectors and further cement Kenya’s long-standing partnership with the United States,” said Mr Kinyanjui.
The Ministry aims to leverage AGOA to grow exports in coffee, tea, horticulture, and tourism services, ensuring Kenya maximizes opportunities to generate wealth and create employment.
— Trade Kenya (@Trade_Kenya) January 14, 2026
Strategic Engagement with Washington
The announcement follows President William Ruto’s recent visit to Washington, D.C., where Kenya’s request for enhanced market access was tabled. The discussions underscored Kenya’s ambition to deepen trade ties with the U.S. and align export growth with its broader economic agenda.
AGOA’s Role in U.S.–Africa Trade
First enacted in May 2000, AGOA was designed to strengthen economic relations between the United States and sub‑Saharan Africa. By offering duty‑free access to the U.S. market for eligible products, the legislation has become a cornerstone of Africa’s trade strategy with America.
The latest extension signals continued U.S. commitment to African economies while reinforcing Kenya’s position as a leading exporter in the region.
