President William Ruto has signed 11 key deals with his Angolan counterpart, João Lourenço, during his official visit to Kenya, which officially commenced on Saturday, October 21.
Speaking at State House Nairobi, Ruto detailed that his administration had struck a deal on wildlife conservation, mining business, youth development, forest conservation, agriculture, ICT, and oil and gas cooperation, among others.
Other agreements touched on the health and training of government administrators at respective schools of government.
The deals were signed at State House after Ruto hosted Lourenço for bilateral talks, a day after the latter missed the Mashujaa Day celebrations.
Lourenço, who was invited as the chief guest, missed the 60th celebrations due to unforeseen reasons.
"Areas of cooperation envisaged include the establishment of a joint liner shipping service. Recognition of Seafarers' Certificates of Competency. Development of mutual regional and local policies and Regulations on Cabotage for the mutual benefit of the Parties.
"The MoU seeks to build the capacity of the diplomatic staff of the two countries. The first training exchange for Swahili and Portuguese languages is proposed to take place by March 30, 2024," read part of the MoU.
During the discussions, Kenya also secured a deal that will see direct flights between the two countries resumed. The flights were stopped at the onset of the global pandemic.
On the other hand, Ruto announced that Kenya had waived visa requirements for citizens of Angola. The Southern African country, however, was yet to sign the same deal.
On his part, Lourenço indicated that the matter would be discussed once he returns to Angola, promising that a decision would be made in the coming days.
"In this matter of Visa, reciprocity has to prevail. We will carefully consider the possibility of reciprocating the same to ordinary passports.
"The signing can take place here or in the city of Luanda," the visiting President stated.
Lourenço also invited Ruto for a State Visit to Luanda.
In reciprocation, Ruto endorsed his candidature for the African Union chairmanship in 2026.
