President Emmerson Mnangagwa of Zimbabwe and Kenya’s President Dr. William Ruto recently witnessed the signing of eight Memoranda of Understanding (MoUs) in Bulawayo. These MoUs, which were negotiated during the fourth session of the Zimbabwe/Kenya Joint Permanent Commission on Cooperation in Harare, aim to enhance political and economic collaboration between the two countries.
The agreements span various sectors including agriculture, science, energy, labour, education, social protection, information technology, and pharmaceuticals, and are divided into four main clusters: foreign affairs, administration, and governance; defence and security; social and cultural affairs; and economic affairs and trade. These MoUs are expected to reinforce the already strong diplomatic and bilateral relationships between Zimbabwe and Kenya.
In his speech, President Mnangagwa emphasized the longstanding and excellent relations between the two nations, underpinned by mutual respect and shared developmental goals. He highlighted the comprehensive nature of the cooperation, which covers trade, investment, education, and regional integration, asserting the need to enhance dialogue and collaborative efforts to benefit both countries.
President Mnangagwa also expressed his gratitude to President Ruto for participating as the guest of honour at the 64th Zimbabwe International Trade Fair, Zimbabwe’s premier business and investment event. He extended his condolences following the tragic helicopter crash that claimed the life of Kenya’s Defence Force Chief, General Francis Ogolla, declaring a three-day national mourning period in Kenya.
In his address, President Ruto noted the longstanding warm relations between the two countries and the potential for enhancing these ties through a Bi-National Commission (BNC). He stressed the low trade volume between the nations and the importance of leveraging the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) to boost bilateral trade. Ruto also acknowledged the significant role of Kenya Airways in fostering these relations, appreciating Zimbabwe’s decision to exempt the airline from corporate tax.
The MoUs cover cooperation in healthcare, governance training, science and innovation, and investment promotion, reflecting the commitment to a strengthened partnership. The leaders agreed to elevate the cooperation framework from a Joint Permanent Commission to a Bi-National Commission, meeting at the head-of-state level, to better facilitate these initiatives.
This enhanced collaboration marks a pivotal moment in Zimbabwe-Kenya relations, promising a future of increased prosperity and mutual development, aligning with both nations’ goals of economic growth and regional integration.
