NAIROBI, Kenya – In a move for regional cooperation, Somalia and Kenya have signed a series of groundbreaking agreements aimed at enhancing bilateral relations.
The signing of these agreements took place in Nairobi, Kenya, as part of the third session of the Kenya-Somalia Joint Commission for Cooperation (JCC), held from May 3 to May 6, 2024.
The agreements cover a wide range of areas including foreign affairs, security, economy, trade, education, and social services, marking a new chapter of collaboration between the two nations. Among the key highlights of these agreements is the resumption of trade in khat, a significant step that is set to boost economic ties between the countries.
Somali Prime Minister Hamza Abdi Barre and Kenyan Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua co-chaired a ministerial session during the JCC conference. The meeting focused on bolstering collaboration in various sectors, with a particular emphasis on security, trade, and cross-border cooperation. Delegates from both nations discussed strategies to tackle security issues along the shared border, combat illegal trade, and foster investment.
The summit also saw the participation of high-ranking officials from both countries, including Somalia’s Minister of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation, Ahmed Moalin Fiqi, and Kenya’s Prime Cabinet Secretary Musalia Mudavadi, who doubles as the Cabinet Secretary for Foreign and Diaspora Affairs.
Kenya and Somalia have had a complex history marked by both cooperation and tensions. However, recent years have seen a concerted effort to strengthen ties and work towards mutual growth and development. These latest agreements are a testament to this ongoing commitment to cooperation and regional stability.
As part of the agreements, Kenya is poised to invest further in Somali infrastructure projects, particularly in ports and telecommunications. On the other hand, Somalia is expected to open up its markets for Kenyan livestock, fishery products, and other agricultural exports.
The cooperation also extends to education, health services, and the delivery of food aid, with both countries aiming to improve water management and bolster education and health services.
The signing of these agreements reflects the growing importance of regional cooperation in East Africa and the desire of both Somalia and Kenya to work together for the benefit of their people.
As the two countries move forward, the success of these agreements will depend on their effective implementation and the continued commitment of both nations to their shared goals.
