DR ALI GHOLAMPOUR: Kenya–Iran ties in spotlight at 47th anniversary of Iranian Revolution

Public Service CS Geoffrey Ruku and Iranian Ambassador to Kenya Dr Ali Gholampour (both centre) during the 47th anniversary of the Iranian Revolution/ IRANIAN EMBASSY

Nairobi played host to a momentous celebration on February 12, as the Embassy of Iran marked the 47th anniversary of the Iranian Revolution. The event served as a powerful testament to the enduring and evolving friendship between Tehran and Nairobi, drawing a distinguished crowd of Kenyan government officials, members of the diplomatic corps and other high-profile guests.

The historical weight of the occasion was set by yours truly, the Iranian Ambassador to Kenya, Dr Ali Gholampour. Reflecting on the 1979 milestone, the ambassador described the revolution as the ultimate manifestation of a nation’s collective will to dismantle a “puppet dictatorship” that had long prioritised foreign interests over the aspirations of its own citizens.

The celebration highlighted Iran’s journey over the last nearly five decades—a period defined by resilience. Guests viewed a video presentation detailing Iran’s notable advancements in science and technology.

Despite “prolonged illegitimate sanctions and coercive measures”, Iran has managed to grow in diverse fields, ranging from advanced medical breakthroughs to the development of nuclear technology for strictly peaceful purposes.

Central to this success has been the “resistance economy”, a strategic framework designed to ensure industrial growth and the expansion of non-oil exports in the face of external pressure.

However, the ambassador did not shy away from the challenges, referencing military aggression against Iranian territory by Israel, economic sabotage and attempts to hijack peaceful domestic protests.

Through excerpts from a speech by the Supreme Leader, the message remained clear: Iran remains committed to diplomacy rooted in mutual respect, rejecting any progress pursued under the “shadow of threats or bullying”.

Relations between Kenya and Iran are currently experiencing a period of renewed growth. Public Service Cabinet Secretary Geoffrey Ruku, who represented the Kenyan government, said the partnership is anchored in shared values of South-South cooperation, peaceful coexistence and multilateralism. This cooperation now spans key sectors, including health, agriculture, education, trade, culture and technology.

A major boost to this momentum was the seventh session of the Kenya–Iran Joint Commission held in Nairobi in August last year. Both the ambassador and the CS noted the signing of eight new memoranda of understanding. These agreements cover political cooperation, renewable energy, electricity, housing, urban development, investment promotion and higher education.

Economic indicators further underline this progress. Bilateral trade has reached about $200 million (approximately Sh25.8 billion), with Iranian imports from Kenya doubling over the past three years. A dedicated tea committee is now active, with Kenyan delegations recently visiting Tehran to ensure trade remains a “two-way street” that benefits both economies.

Perhaps the most tangible impact of this partnership is seen in the health sector. The Iran House of Innovation and Technology has become a vital gateway for Iranian high-tech products, particularly pharmaceuticals, in Kenya, supplying essential treatments for oncology, cardiovascular diseases and liver transplant care.

In addition, the Iranian Red Crescent Society has invested more than $1 million (Sh129 million) to upgrade its Nairobi facilities into a twenty-bed hospital and maternity wing, including a new twelve-machine haemodialysis centre.

These facilities provide more than 30,000 medical services each month. CS Ruku praised these contributions, noting that they align closely with Kenya’s universal health coverage goals. Mobile medical camps have also provided free cataract surgeries, restoring sight to many Kenyans.

As the evening concluded with a showcase of Iran’s natural beauty and ancient culture, attention turned to the future. The CS emphasised Kenya’s role as a gateway to East and Central Africa through the African Continental Free Trade Area, encouraging further Iranian investment in local manufacturing and technology transfer.

Invoking the words of Imam Khomeini, the ambassador reminded the audience that “true freedom lies in serving humanity”. As guests departed after enjoying traditional Iranian cuisine, the message was clear: the 47-year legacy of the Islamic Revolution is not only an Iranian milestone, but also a shared journey of cooperation and prosperity with Kenya.

The writer is the Iranian ambassador to Kenya