“The alumni are invaluable – they help us open doors and achieve our goals”

The Swedish Embassy in Nairobi is tapping into its alumni network to drive sustainable initiatives in Kenya. By connecting with Sweden alumni, the embassy is fostering collaborations that promote e-mobility, sustainable construction, and educational opportunities – making alumni a cornerstone of their strategic efforts.

The embassy of Sweden in Kenya has been actively engaging with alumni to foster sustainable development initiatives. Sweden alumni play a critical role in the embassy’s projects, particularly in the realm of e-mobility. For instance, when a Swedish-Kenyan company launched an e-bike, the embassy recognized the need for broader discussions with key stakeholders.

– Thanks to an alumni at Kenya Power and Lighting Company (KPLC) the embassy was able to engage the company’s managing director, significantly advancing our efforts in promoting e-mobility in Kenya, says Mutheu Mbondo from the embassy of Sweden in Nairobi.

The collaboration with alumni has since expanded, focusing on projects like introducing electric trucks on Kenyan roads. Alumni have been instrumental in these initiatives, using their positions in major Kenyan power companies.

Alumni help to achieve long-term goals

Alumni are also central to the embassy’s three-year plan, which includes trade and export promotion. Their connections have created opportunities for deeper collaboration between Swedish companies and Kenyan stakeholders. Recognizing the value of these contributions, the embassy is committed to strengthening ties with alumni, particularly in facilitating connections between them and Swedish companies.

The embassy is also working to increase the number of Kenyans studying in Sweden. By shifting strategies and being curious in direct connections between Kenyan and Swedish universities, the embassy aims to raise Sweden’s profile as a study destination.

Overall, alumni are important to the embassy’s mission, helping to achieve long-term goals – while the embassy strives to give back by offering valuable support and opportunities.