Cairo – Kenya and Egypt have solidified their bilateral relations by signing a Joint Declaration for a Strategic and Comprehensive Partnership. Presidents William Ruto and Abdel Fattah El-Sisi formalized the agreement, marking a new chapter in the two nations’ cooperation.
President Ruto emphasized that this partnership elevates the relationship between Kenya and Egypt, strengthening ties and boosting engagement across multiple sectors. “By appending my and President Abdel Fattah El-Sisi’s signatures, we have elevated our relationship and strengthened our ties to boost our engagements,” he stated.
This visit, the first State Visit by a Kenyan President to Egypt, also commemorates 60 years of Kenya-Egypt diplomatic relations. In addition to the joint declaration, the two governments signed 12 agreements expanding cooperation in diverse fields, including trade, investment, education, research, and technology. These memoranda of understanding aim to unlock significant opportunities for both nations and their citizens.
The signed agreements cover areas such as political consultations, diplomatic training, investment cooperation, gender equality, maritime partnerships (between Lamu Port Authority and Alexandria Port Authority, and Red Sea Port Authority and Kenya Ports Authority), youth empowerment, higher education and scientific research, telecommunications and IT, space cooperation, governance and sustainable development, and housing, construction, and urban development.
During a joint press briefing in Cairo, President Ruto announced that discussions are underway to finalize agreements in customs cooperation, security, tourism, mining, the blue economy, sports development, and a water grant agreement. He expressed confidence in the swift conclusion of these pending matters.
President Ruto highlighted the shared vision for economic transformation and sustainable development driving this partnership. He also called for the establishment of a Joint Business Council to further enhance bilateral ties and explore new trade and investment opportunities. He stressed the importance of eliminating trade barriers, streamlining regulations, and simplifying customs procedures to create a more efficient trading environment.
On peace and security, President Ruto commended President El-Sisi’s efforts in the Middle East, Somalia, and Sudan. He acknowledged the existing defense cooperation agreement between Kenya and Egypt, which has provided training for Kenyan defense officers in Egyptian military facilities. “We recognize that peace is the foundation of progress and must work together to advance stability, particularly in regions affected by conflicts,” he affirmed.
President Ruto also appealed to Egypt for support of Kenya’s candidate, Raila Odinga, for the position of Chairperson of the African Union Commission (2025-2028). He praised President El-Sisi’s leadership in promoting peace and stability in the Middle East and North Africa, particularly his efforts in securing a ceasefire and facilitating humanitarian aid into Gaza. Kenya, he reiterated, supports a two-state solution to the Israeli-Palestinian conflict and remains committed to UN Security Council Resolution 2728 of 2024.
President Ruto expressed gratitude for Egypt’s support during Kenya’s tenure on the UN Security Council (2021-2022). He further emphasized the need for urgent reforms within the AU to enhance its efficiency and responsiveness to Africa’s needs. He also acknowledged the vibrant Kenyan diaspora community in Egypt and expressed appreciation for the support they receive from the Egyptian government.
President El-Sisi echoed the sentiment of enhanced bilateral relations, emphasizing the opportunity to collaborate for the economic prosperity of both nations. He identified defense, security, water, culture, and education as key areas of focus. He also noted the contributions of Egyptian private sector investments in Kenya, particularly in agriculture, infrastructure, health, and irrigation. Regarding the Nile River, he stressed the importance of cooperation and ensuring that its use benefits all parties involved.
President Ruto was accompanied by First Lady Rachel Ruto, Prime Cabinet Secretary Musalia Mudavadi, former Prime Minister Raila Odinga, and Cabinet Secretaries Aden Duale, Lee Kinyanjui, and Eric Mugaa.
