Kenya and Egypt sign 12 new deals to boost ties, drive economic transformation
The 12 agreements build on four earlier MoUs signed in 2024 during the 7th session of the Kenya-Egypt Joint Commission for Cooperation in Nairobi.
Kenya and Egypt have sealed 12 new agreements aimed at boosting trade, investment, education, and technology exchanges between the two nations.
The deals, signed by President William Ruto and Egyptian leader Abdel Fattah el-Sisi on Wednesday, cover a wide range of sectors including political consultations, diplomatic training, and youth empowerment.
President Ruto highlighted that the agreements will enhance cooperation in several areas, such as gender equality, maritime partnerships, higher education, scientific research, and sustainable development.
“These agreements will further expand our collaboration in telecommunications and IT, space cooperation, governance, housing, construction, and urban development,” he said.
Ruto added that discussions are at an advanced stage to finalise agreements in other critical sectors, including customs cooperation, security, tourism, mining, blue economy, sports development, and the Grant Water Agreement.
“I trust that we shall swiftly conclude on the pending matters and have the MoUs come into force as soon as practicable,” Ruto said.
He said that the agreements will drive economic transformation and sustainable development for both countries.
Joint business council
As part of efforts to strengthen business relations, Ruto proposed the establishment of a joint business council, which will explore new trade and investment opportunities.
“We also discussed measures to eliminate trade barriers, streamline regulations, and simplify customs procedures to create a more predictable and efficient trading environment for our business communities,” he noted.
The two countries aim to improve the business climate by addressing challenges like delayed payments and supply chain inefficiencies, which could lead to increased economic resilience and shared prosperity.
President Ruto also praised el-Sisi’s leadership in promoting peace and security in Africa, particularly in the Middle East and North Africa.
“I commend my dear brother, President El-Sisi, for his strong leadership in promoting security and stability in the region, including his tireless efforts in securing a ceasefire and facilitating humanitarian aid into Gaza,” he said.
Elevate Kenya-Egypt relations
The 12 agreements build on four earlier MoUs signed in 2024 during the 7th session of the Kenya-Egypt Joint Commission for Cooperation in Nairobi.
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President Ruto described these new agreements as a key step toward elevating Kenya-Egypt relations into a strategic and comprehensive partnership.
“Both our countries are committed to elevating our relationship to a strategic and comprehensive partnership that will bring greater opportunities to our people,” he stated.
The MoUs also include specific areas such as capacity building in foreign service, diplomatic training, and space cooperation.
In terms of maritime partnerships, Kenya’s ports, including the Kenya Ports Authority and the Lamu Port Authority, stand to benefit from collaborations with Egypt’s Alexandria Port Authority, which handles 60 per cent of the country’s foreign trade.
Ruto said the agreements were nearing completion, with many set to take effect soon.
He emphasised the importance of swift implementation, which will solidify both nations’ commitment to economic and social development.
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