Kenya is aiming for a new partnership agreement with the United Arab Emirates to enhance its railway network. The proposal includes extending the Standard Gauge Railway to connect with Uganda and South Sudan. President William Ruto, during a meeting with Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, President of the United Arab Emirates, highlighted the initiative. "As part of the plan, we have agreed to conduct a feasibility study over the extension of the SGR due to its capacity to foster regional integration and promote trade," Ruto stated on X. This development is anticipated to facilitate broader access across the region.
The discussions in Abu Dhabi also covered the UAE's potential investment in the Galana-Kulalu project among other agricultural ventures, aimed at bolstering Kenya's food security. The Galana Kulalu Project, a $52,670,000 initiative by the Kenyan government with private sector collaboration, is managed by the National Irrigation Authority. Furthermore, the signing of the Kenya-United Arab Emirates Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement (CEPA) was revealed, promising to deepen trade relations by simplifying trade procedures and encouraging industrialization. This agreement is expected to significantly enhance Kenya's exports, including fresh produce like fruits, vegetables, and flowers, and opens up UAE investment opportunities in various sectors. The CEPA aligns with Kenya's strategy to minimize borrowing while increasing foreign direct investment and public-private partnerships.
Source: Kahawatungu