Reception for the 66th Birthday of His Majesty the Emperor of Japan
2026/2/10
On 10th February, 2026, H.E. Mr. Hiroshi Matsuura, Ambassador of Japan hosted a reception at his residence to celebrate the 65th birthday of His Majesty Emperor Naruhito. The reception was attended by Dr. Korir Sing'oei, Principal Secretary for Foreign Affairs, officials from the Government of Kenya, and the Diplomatic Corps as well as guests from the private sector and the Japanese community in Kenya.
Summary of Ambassador Matsuura's opening address: (link for Full text)
The friendship and cooperation between Japan and Kenya continue to strengthen. Emperor Naruhito’s visit to Kenya in 2010 as Crown Prince demonstrated deep respect for Kenyan culture and a personal connection to Africa. Since then, mutual visits by leaders and active participation at TICAD9 have further enhanced bilateral relations. Significant Japanese investments, such as Asahi Group’s acquisition of East African Breweries, reflect growing economic ties. Japanese companies are responding to Kenya’s evolving market needs, while cultural and sports exchanges have expanded, deepening mutual understanding.
Japan and Kenya, sharing common diplomatic principles such as a rule-based international order, multilateralism, peace and stability, and Pan-Africanism, will work together to promote a free and open Indo-Pacific and to advance the market integration of the East African Community. Strengthening collaboration with UN agencies based in Nairobi is also a priority to advance multilateral cooperation. Japan remains committed to supporting Kenya’s resilient and self-reliant development, continuing to build on the long-standing friendship rooted in mutual trust and respect.
Summary of Ambassador Matsuura's opening address: (link for Full text)
The friendship and cooperation between Japan and Kenya continue to strengthen. Emperor Naruhito’s visit to Kenya in 2010 as Crown Prince demonstrated deep respect for Kenyan culture and a personal connection to Africa. Since then, mutual visits by leaders and active participation at TICAD9 have further enhanced bilateral relations. Significant Japanese investments, such as Asahi Group’s acquisition of East African Breweries, reflect growing economic ties. Japanese companies are responding to Kenya’s evolving market needs, while cultural and sports exchanges have expanded, deepening mutual understanding.
Japan and Kenya, sharing common diplomatic principles such as a rule-based international order, multilateralism, peace and stability, and Pan-Africanism, will work together to promote a free and open Indo-Pacific and to advance the market integration of the East African Community. Strengthening collaboration with UN agencies based in Nairobi is also a priority to advance multilateral cooperation. Japan remains committed to supporting Kenya’s resilient and self-reliant development, continuing to build on the long-standing friendship rooted in mutual trust and respect.