NAIROBI--Desiree Gomes, a former senior executive at Kenyan firm Gina Din, is launching a new firm called Engage Burson-Marsteller in the country.

Gomes spent 13 years at Gina Din, one of the country's leading PR agencies, most recently as executive director. She becomes managing partner at Engage, supported by senior partner Carol Muthaura.

The deal gives Burson the option to purchase a "substantial" minority equity stake in the business, said EMEA CEO Jeremy Galbraith. The move follows Burson's 2011 acquisition of South African consultancy Arcay.

”The Kenyan economy is vibrant and dynamic and following the peaceful elections earlier this year, the economic outlook is very positive," said Galbraith. "The agriculture, manufacturing, tourism, construction, energy and communication sectors are all growing strongly and Engage Burson-Marsteller is uniquely positioned to service the communication needs of businesses operating in these areas in Kenya.”