Kenya and Guinea-Bissau have pledged to boost their diplomatic and trade relations, with a focus on fostering economic growth, enhancing peace, and advancing African Union reforms. This commitment was made during bilateral discussions between Presidents William Ruto and Umaro Sissoco Embaló in Nairobi.
President Ruto emphasized the importance of leveraging the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) and the Tripartite Free Trade Agreement to stimulate trade and investment between the two countries. Both leaders believe that these initiatives will benefit their populations and contribute to regional prosperity.
Ruto, who champions reforms within the African Union (AU), reiterated his intention to collaborate with Guinea-Bissau to drive key institutional changes within the AU, particularly in restructuring the African Court of Justice and strengthening the Pan-African Parliament.
The two leaders also expressed deep concern over the ongoing conflicts in Sudan and the eastern DRC, stressing the need for African cooperation to restore peace and stability.
In addition, President Ruto revealed plans for a direct Kenya Airways route to Guinea-Bissau to enhance connectivity and trade, along with educational support for Guinea-Bissau students in fields such as agriculture, trade, and tourism.
The Kenyan leader thanked Embaló for backing Kenya’s candidate for the African Union Commission Chairperson position for the 2025–2028 term. President Embaló reaffirmed Guinea-Bissau’s commitment to fostering peace in Africa and strengthening the bilateral ties between the two nations.