Uganda, Kenya deepen ties with seven new bilateral agreements

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President Yoweri Museveni and his Kenyan counterpart William Ruto have signed seven new bilateral agreements, signalling deeper cooperation across key sectors.

The agreements were signed on Wednesday, July 30, at State House in Nairobi during Museveni’s visit to Kenya.

The latest agreements expand the number of bilateral frameworks between Uganda and Kenya to 25. Areas covered include tourism, agriculture, and fisheries. These agreements are expected to support mutual growth through improved visitor attraction, food production, and aquaculture development.

President Museveni and President Ruto holding bilateral talks attended by ministers and officials from Both Uganda and Kenya governments at Nairobi State House on Wednesday. (PPU)

Uganda and Kenya also committed to joint efforts in transport infrastructure, property rights, and standards regulation, alongside a framework for boosting investment and technology exchange, with special attention to supporting informal traders in the Busia Metro region.

Uganda Investment Authority's Director General, Robert Mukiza, and his Kenyan counterpart signing an MOU on Investment promotions at Nairobi State House on Wednesday as Presidents Museveni (L) and Ruto (R) look on. (PPU)

Uganda's Agriculture Minister Frank Tumwebaze and his Kenyan counterpart signing an MOU on agriculture at Nairobi State House on Wednesday. PPU Photo

Uganda's Energy Minister Ruth Nankabirwa and her Kenyan counterpart signing an MOU on energy and minerals at Nairobi State House on Wednesday. PPU Photo

Uganda's Foreign Affairs Minister Jeje Odong and his Kenyan counterpart after signing an MOU at Nairobi State House on Wednesday. PPU Photo

Uganda's Lands Minister Judith Nabakooba and her Kenyan counterpart after signing an MOU at Nairobi State House on Wednesday. Looking on (in background) are President Museveni (L) and President Ruto (R). (PPU)

Uganda's Minister for Transport, Fred Byabakama and his Kenyan counterpart signing an MOU on transport at Nairobi State House on Wednesday as Presidents Museveni (L) and Ruto (R) look on. PPU Photo

During a joint press conference, President Museveni stressed Africa’s need to harness its vast resources and enhance productivity, particularly in industry and agriculture. He quoted from a biblical prayer: “They left undone what they ought to have done and did what they ought not to have done,” highlighting this as a core challenge for the continent.

He added, “The more goods and services you produce, the wealthier you become. But a central question remains: who buys what you produce?” Museveni urged leaders to focus on market access and consumer engagement to ensure sustainability.

President Ruto described the signing as a reflection of the historic and strategic ties between the two countries.

“This occasion reflects the strength of our historical partnership, anchored in common ideals, deep respect, and a shared ambition for regional stability and progress,” Ruto said.

He reaffirmed Kenya and Uganda’s commitment to joint efforts in trade, infrastructure, energy, security, and regional integration.