Somalia-Kenya Trade Week opens in Eastleigh to strengthen economic ties
The Somalia-Kenya Trade Week seeks to enhance business cooperation, attract investment, and explore new opportunities between the two neighbouring countries.
A three-day trade event aimed at strengthening economic ties between Kenya and Somalia began on Wednesday at Business Bay Square (BBS) Mall in Eastleigh.
The Somalia-Kenya Trade Week seeks to enhance business cooperation, attract investment, and explore new opportunities between the two neighbouring countries.
More To Read
- Trade unions back Somalia's new sales tax, say it's the right step towards fiscal transparency
- Kenya-Somalia ties: From frosty relations to a flourishing bond
- Kenyan envoy to Somalia details plans after presenting credentials to President Hassan
- Kenya's new envoy to Somalia presents copies of credentials at Foreign ministry
The event was attended by key government officials and business leaders from both nations. Kenya's Cabinet Secretary for Investment, Trade, and Industry, Lee Kinyanjui, and Somalia's Minister of Planning, Investment, and Economic Development, Mohamud Abdirahman, led the discussions.
Also present were Somalia's Ambassador to Kenya, Jabril Ibrahim Abdulle, Garissa County Governor Nathif Jama, BBS Mall CEO Munir Ahmed, and Eastleigh Business District Association CEO Mohamed Adan, among other entrepreneurs and stakeholders.
Since Somalia joined the East African Community (EAC) in 2024, trade with Kenya has grown significantly, particularly in key sectors such as tea, livestock, and fish exports. The inclusion of Somalia in the regional bloc has facilitated easier trade policies, increased cross-border investments, and enhanced market access for businesses in both countries.
Participants during the first day of the Somalia-Kenya Kenya Trade Week event at the Business Bay Square Mall in Eastleigh, Nairobi on February 26, 2025. (Photo: Justine Ondieki)
Speaking at the event, Kenya's Trade and Industry Cabinet Secretary Lee Kinyanjui emphasised the potential for deeper economic collaboration between Kenya and Somalia.
He noted that the two countries share strong historical, cultural, and economic connections, which create investment opportunities.
"Kenya and Somalia not only share a geographical border but also deep economic and cultural ties," he said.
He highlighted Somalia's extensive coastline and major ports, which he suggested could help decongest the Port of Mombasa and improve regional trade.
Kinyanjui pointed to the rapid urban development in Mogadishu and other Somali cities, noting that the real estate sector was a promising area for investors.
He also spoke about Somalia's agricultural potential, stating that its fertile lands provide opportunities for large-scale farming and agribusiness ventures.
"The country has the longest coastline in mainland Africa, offering immense potential in the fishing and maritime trade sectors. Despite past political instability, the Somali government has made efforts to stabilise the economy and attract direct foreign investment," he said.
Somalia's Minister of Planning, Investment, and Economic Development, Mohamud Abdirahman, welcomed the trade event, stating that it was taking place at a crucial time when Somalia was experiencing progress across multiple sectors.
He noted that the government had improved security by liberating most regions from armed groups, creating a more stable environment for business.
"This improved security has created a favourable environment for investment, making Somalia safe and its strategic location ideal for investors seeking new opportunities in the region," he said.
Mohamud encouraged Kenyan businesses and multinational companies based in Kenya to explore investment opportunities in Somalia, particularly in infrastructure, agriculture, and fisheries.
Also present were Somalia's Ambassador to Kenya, Jabril Ibrahim Abdulle (left), Garissa Governor Nathif Jama (centre), BBS Mall CEO Munir Ahmed, and Eastleigh Business District Association CEO Mohamed Adan, among other entrepreneurs and stakeholders. (Photo: Justine Ondieki)
Garissa Governor Nathif Jama called for the reopening of the Kenya-Somalia border to facilitate formal trade arguing that open borders would enhance economic activities, create jobs, and improve the livelihoods of people on both sides.
"One of the issues we advocate for and hope will happen sooner rather than later is the formal and official reopening of the borders," he said.
Nathif explained that by allowing formal trade, both countries could regulate tariffs and maximise economic benefits. Garissa County shares the longest border with Somalia among other Kenyan counties, making it a key region for cross-border commerce.
Somalia's Ambassador to Kenya, Jabril Ibrahim Abdulle, noted that major infrastructure projects were underway in Somalia, presenting business opportunities for Kenyan investors. He highlighted Somalia's wealth of natural resources, including oil, gas, fisheries, and renewable energy, as key areas for investment.
"These projects present lucrative opportunities for Kenyan investors who can leverage their expertise," he said.
He revealed that over 40,000 Kenyans are currently working in Somalia across various industries such as hospitality, education, healthcare, and security.
Jabril stated that Kenyan expatriates not only make a living in Somalia but also send an estimated $300 million back to Kenya annually, contributing to the economy.
The Somalia-Kenya Trade Week will continue on Thursday and conclude on Friday. Business leaders, government officials, and investors are expected to engage in discussions on trade policies, investment frameworks, and potential collaborations.
Top Stories Today
