Kenya and the United Arab Emirates (UAE) have strengthened their bilateral ties by signing seven Memoranda of Understanding (MoUs) across key sectors including energy, transport, defence, and trade.
The signing ceremony, held at State House Nairobi on Thursday, May 8, was presided over by President William Ruto and UAE’s Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs, His Highness Sheikh Abdullah Bin Zayed Al Nahyan.
Table of Contents:
1. Renewable Energy Collaboration
Kenya and the UAE agreed to work together on clean energy initiatives focused on solar, wind, and geothermal projects. The MoU outlines plans for enhancing technical skills, infrastructure, and knowledge sharing to accelerate access to sustainable energy.
2. Customs Cooperation Agreement
A new customs cooperation pact will help combat illicit trade and enhance data exchange between the two countries. The agreement aims to streamline border enforcement and improve trade transparency.
3. Joint Business Council
To deepen private-sector ties, the two nations will form a Kenya-UAE Joint Business Council. This council will promote trade, encourage investment, and serve as a forum for policy engagement between business communities.
4. Rail Infrastructure Development
Kenya Railways Corporation signed an MoU with the Etihad Rail Company of the UAE to support rail infrastructure modernization. The deal includes technology transfer, feasibility studies, and knowledge-sharing aimed at boosting industrial logistics.
5. Defence and Security Cooperation
Under the defence MoU, Kenya and the UAE pledged to enhance military collaboration through capacity building, institutional partnerships, and regional stability initiatives, all in accordance with international law.
6. Infrastructure Development
Another MoU focused on infrastructure projects will support strategic developments in roads, bridges, and public transport systems. UAE companies are expected to explore investment opportunities in Kenya’s transport sector.
7. Economic Cooperation Framework
The two countries reaffirmed their commitment to the Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement (CEPA), which seeks to enhance mutual trade benefits, remove barriers, and boost investor confidence.
President Ruto’s Statement
Following the signing, President Ruto emphasized Kenya’s dedication to fostering deeper ties with the UAE.
“We are focused on deepening diplomatic relations with the United Arab Emirates and delivering on our Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement. We are also strengthening security collaboration at the regional and global levels to promote peace and stability,” Ruto wrote on X (formerly Twitter).
