Kenya and Djibouti have agreed to push for a visa-free regime to boost trade between the two countries.
The announcement was made on Sunday during a meeting between President William Ruto of Kenya and his counterpart Ismaïl Omar Guelleh at the Palais Présidentiel in Djibouti.
The leaders also agreed to establish the Kenya-Djibouti business council, which will drive commerce between the two nations.
Speaking after the meeting, President Ruto said that people from Djibouti visiting Kenya would not be required to have visas. “This is part of our contribution to easing the movement of people, goods and services in Africa,” he added.
The strengthening of ties between Kenya and Djibouti will also inspire stability in the region, according to President Ruto.
He noted that this development would be underpinned by the resumption of air transport between Nairobi and Djibouti.
Meanwhile, President Guelleh stressed that peace was essential for countries to make strides and attain transformation in Africa.
President Ruto has called on African leaders to formulate effective solutions to unemployment, poverty, and inequality facing Africa.
During his address to the National Assembly of Djibouti, he said it was time Africa’s aspirations were put at the center of the world’s interests. “We are not looking for any favor; we have resources, practical views, and solutions to the climate crisis,” he added.
The president maintained that Africa could not afford to continue blaming its past for its failures. “It is a reformed and streamlined African Union that will elevate give our continent a new lease of life.” He said operationalizing a Pan-African Parliament would further help Africa meet challenges facing it today.
In conclusion, both leaders emphasized their commitment towards deepening unity among African nations while pushing for free trade that creates more jobs and incomes across borders.
