Kenya and Uganda have reaffirmed their mutual commitment to advancing bilateral cooperation, focusing on shared prosperity, integration, and stronger regional ties. This pledge was made during a three-day Mid-Term Review (MTR) of the Second Session of the Joint Ministerial Commission (JMC) held in Nairobi. The meeting sought to assess the progress made in implementing presidential directives aimed at enhancing collaboration between the two nations.
The high-level talks were co-chaired by Dr. Korir Singoei, Principal Secretary in Kenya’s State Department of Foreign Affairs, and Mr. Vincent Bagiire, Permanent Secretary for Foreign Affairs of Uganda. Both officials underscored the importance of the discussions, which were guided by the eight-point Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) signed on 30th July 2025 by Presidents William Ruto and Yoweri Kaguta Museveni. The MOU targets key development sectors, including transport, trade, agriculture, tourism, fisheries, mining, and product quality standards.
Among the significant initiatives under the MOU are the extension of the Standard Gauge Railway to Malaba, removal of tariffs and quotas on various goods, and streamlining border procedures to facilitate faster trade. Products such as poultry, dairy, sugar, rice, juices, and furniture originating from either country are set to enjoy freer movement. The agreement also promotes peace and security, immigration cooperation, joint border control, cultural exchanges, and deeper customs integration to reduce non-tariff barriers (NTBs).
Speaking at the MTR session, Dr. Singoei highlighted that the partnership between Kenya and Uganda reflects the aspirations of millions of citizens and aligns with Africa’s broader continental agenda. He described the review process as a demonstration of accountability and a reaffirmation of the countries’ dedication to tangible results and mutual benefit. Mr. Bagiire echoed this sentiment, noting that the technical committees had made commendable progress in preparing bilateral instruments on immigration, labour, anti-drug trafficking, illicit arms control, and police cooperation for future ministerial signing.
In a joint communique, both nations recognised their shared contributions toward peace and security in the region, despite persistent and evolving challenges. They also committed to bolstering regional integration through stronger customs union cooperation, the common market framework, and currency-related initiatives. Additionally, the leaders stressed the importance of peaceful coexistence among border communities as a foundation for sustained cooperation.
Looking ahead, the ministers of trade from both countries are scheduled to meet on 29th and 30th August in Uganda to address outstanding NTBs that continue to impede cross-border commerce. This meeting will precede the Joint Trade Committee (JTC) session set for October 2025, where further steps are expected to be agreed upon to cement the Kenya-Uganda partnership and accelerate socio-economic transformation in the region.
