Young African entrepreneurs are set to explore new business opportunities as the Elite’s Jamboree event opens in Dubai, coinciding with Kenya’s move to formalize a trade agreement with the United Arab Emirates.

The event comes as Kenya’s Cabinet Secretary for Investments, Trade and Industry submits the Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement (CEPA) to the National Assembly for ratification.

The agreement aims to boost trade between Kenya and the UAE, with specific attention to key sectors like digital services and agriculture.

For many Kenyan startups, particularly those led by youth, the event presents a chance to connect with potential investors and business partners from the UAE.

Entrepreneurs attending the event are expected to explore collaborations in fintech, e-commerce, and other digital services—sectors highlighted in the CEPA memorandum.

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The UAE’s established digital infrastructure is seen as complementary to Kenya’s growing technology ecosystem.

“The current generation of African entrepreneurs speaks the same language as their Middle Eastern counterparts—innovation, technology, and scalable solutions,” said entrepreneur Vusi Thembekwayo, one of the event’s speakers.

While traditional agricultural exports such as tea and horticulture remain important, some young Kenyan entrepreneurs are focusing on technology-driven solutions within the sector.

Innovations in supply chain management and agritech platforms are being developed to improve efficiency and value addition.

“These new models could change how Middle Eastern markets access African agricultural products,” said Boni Nyaga of Mawaitha Africa. “The CEPA outlines opportunities for such approaches.”

The agreement is also expected to simplify logistics and reduce trade barriers, which could make it easier for small-scale producers to access the UAE market.

The CEPA framework includes measures aimed at encouraging investment flows.

For startups, especially those in early growth stages, access to capital remains a key challenge.

“There’s growing interest in channeling capital into African innovation,” said Dr. William Stenhouse of the UAE-Africa Networking Group.

“Events like this can help build those connections.”

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While the trade deal opens new possibilities, its full impact will depend on the pace and outcome of the ratification process in Kenya’s parliament.

If passed, it will mark one of the first bilateral trade agreements between Kenya and a Gulf country.