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Kenyan envoy hails economic diplomacy, cooperation

Peter 17th Dec, 2024 Economy Business Edge Reporter
Kenyan envoy hails economic diplomacy, cooperation

Joash Maangi, the Kenyan High Commissioner to Uganda, toasts with Jeje Odongo, Uganda's Minister of Foreign Affairs, at the Jamhuri Day Celebrations in Kampala recently.


The Kenyan High Commissioner to Uganda, Joash Maangi, has acknowledged the enduring "brotherhood" between Kenya and Uganda, which he said has significantly contributed to mutual progress.

Speaking at celebrations to mark Kenya’s 61st Jamhuri Day in Kampala recently, Maangi expressed his country’s commitment to regional economic transformation.

"Our cooperation is a reflection of the strong ties between our nations, and it has driven growth across various sectors," said Maangi, further emphasizing the importance of the Joint Ministerial Commission, a platform that facilitates and formalizes agreements to deepen bilateral cooperation.

  • Uganda’s Foreign Minister, General Jeje Odongo, also highlighted the vital relationship between the two countries in fostering regional development in key sectors such as trade, defense, health, education, and more.

The colourful event at the Kampala Serena Hotel demonstrated the growing cooperation between Kenya and Uganda, with leaders emphasizing shared prosperity, trade, and regional collaboration.

A notable outcome of the Joint Ministerial Commission, according to Maangi, was the second meeting in May 2024, where seven critical Memoranda of Understanding (MoUs) were signed. These agreements cover public service, youth affairs, sports, and scientific research, solidifying the collaborative framework between Kenya and Uganda.

  • He also discussed the role of economic diplomacy in not only advancing Kenya’s socio-economic goals but also promoting regional integration.

"We are committed to regional economic transformation that benefits all nations," Maangi stated. He highlighted the significant role of Kenyan investments in Uganda’s manufacturing, construction, ICT, and agriculture sectors as pivotal drivers of regional prosperity.

Both leaders also emphasized the importance of improving cross-border trade and infrastructure as key elements in the ongoing partnership. One key initiative discussed was the implementation of one-stop border posts, designed to streamline and accelerate trade between Kenya and Uganda.

Maangi said Kenyan President Dr. William Ruto had directed that goods arriving from Mombasa should face no delays at the border, ensuring smoother transit between the two nations. “We are committed to ensuring that Ugandans exporting goods via the Port of Mombasa experience no hindrances,” said Maangi.

He also highlighted the successful integration of Kenyan and Ugandan customs officers at the border, which has led to faster clearance times, making trade between the two countries more efficient and seamless.

  • One of the key achievements showcased during the Jamhuri Day celebrations was the oil trade agreement signed between Kenya, Uganda, and Tanzania. The agreement, finalized in May 2024 during Ugandan President Yoweri Museveni’s state visit to Kenya, enables Uganda to import refined petroleum products through the Port of Mombasa, resulting in lower fuel prices for both countries.
  • Maangi hailed the agreement as a "game-changer" for regional economic cooperation, noting that it has contributed to reduced fuel prices at the pump due to improved logistics and reduced transit costs. "The success of this oil deal demonstrates the power of collaboration between Kenya and Uganda, two close neighbors and essential trade partners, working together to foster economic stability and growth," Maangi explained.

Both Maangi and Minister Odongo emphasized the crucial role of private sector engagement in further strengthening Kenya-Uganda relations. Gen. Odongo pointed out that Kenya remains one of Uganda’s largest trade partners, with both countries continuing to grow together economically.

"We must encourage both the public and private sectors to explore new opportunities for collaboration and deepen our economic integration," Odongo said.

Kenya and Uganda play central roles in regional economic organizations such as the East African Community (EAC), the Common Market for Eastern and Southern Africa (COMESA), and the Nile Basin Initiative. They are also key participants in the Northern Corridor Integration Projects, which aim to improve infrastructure and connectivity across the region.

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