Both nations established diplomatic relations in 2001. That same year, Cuba opened an embassy in Nairobi.[1] Initially, relations between both nations were limited.
In September 2016, Kenyan Principal Secretary for Foreign Affairs, Monica Juma, paid a visit to Cuba and opened Kenya's first resident embassy in Havana.[2] In November 2016, Kenyan President Uhuru Kenyatta attended the funeral of former Cuban President Fidel Castro in Havana.[3]
In March 2018, President Kenyatta returned to Cuba on a state visit.[4] While in Cuba, President Kenyatta met with President Raúl Castro where both leaders held bilateral discussions.
In 2021, both nations celebrated 20 years of diplomatic relations.[5]
Bilateral agreements
Both nations have signed a few bilateral agreements such as an Agreement to hold bilateral political consultations (2004); Agreement in Health Cooperation and allowing Cuban doctors to provide health care in Kenya (2017); and an Agreement for the training of Kenyan health professionals in Cuba (2022).[6][7]