Mogadishu, 26 January 2025. Today marked a significant milestone in bilateral relations between Kenya and Somalia. The Kenya National Chamber of Commerce and Industry (KNCCI) and the Somalia Chamber of Commerce and Industry (SCCI) signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU), marking the dawn of a new chapter in regional economic cooperation and partnership in East Africa. KNCCI was represented by the Chamber President, Dr. Erick Rutto, and Chief Executive Officer, Ahmed Farah. Mohamud Abdikarim Gabeyre, President of the Somali Chamber of Commerce and Industry, represented the Somali Chamber.

Kenya and Somalia share a long history of cultural, social, and economic interactions and have traded goods and services for centuries. However, the potential for trade between the two nations remains vastly untapped. This MoU aims to unlock this potential to benefit its people and the two economies.

The signing of this MoU signifies the commitment to strengthening trade ties and fostering collaboration between Kenya and Somalia. It is a pact that embodies the shared vision of promoting economic growth, creating jobs, and enhancing the prosperity of the two nations. This agreement provides a framework for:

  1. Trade Facilitation: Jointly identify and eliminate barriers to trade and advocate for improving logistics to facilitate the seamless flow of goods and services across borders.
  2. Business Partnerships: This MoU will foster partnerships between Kenyan and Somali businesses, encouraging investments and knowledge sharing across industries such as mining, agriculture, technology, manufacturing, and infrastructure.
  3. Capacity Building: Promoting the exchange of expertise, training, and innovation empowers business communities with the tools they need to compete effectively in regional and global markets.
  4. Market Access: Through collaboration, explore opportunities to expand the reach in livestock, textiles, horticulture, and tourism, leveraging on respective strengths to benefit both nations.

Essentially, this MoU is about creating opportunities for a farmer in Somalia to sell their produce in Kenya or enabling a Kenyan entrepreneur to expand their business into Somalia. It is about improving livelihoods and building resilience for communities on both sides of the border.

The governments of the two nations play a critical role in supporting this endeavor. Policies that encourage cross-border investments, ensure security, and promote regional stability are vital for the success of this partnership.

This MoU serves as a beacon of hope, a symbol of unity, and a call to action. As Somalia becomes the eighth member of the East African Community, Kenya and Somalia have the opportunity to create a vibrant trade corridor that benefits both nations and strengthens the region’s economic integration. This marks a pivotal step toward building a stronger, more prosperous future for the people of Kenya, Somalia, and the broader East African region.