Kenya and Uganda Ink Eight New MOUs to Deepen Bilateral Ties, Advance SGR and Regional Trade

Nairobi, Kenya – Kenya and Uganda have reaffirmed their long-standing partnership through the signing of eight new Memoranda of Understanding (MOUs) aimed at enhancing cooperation across key sectors. The bilateral agreements were signed at State House, Nairobi, during a meeting between President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni of Uganda and his Kenyan counterpart, President William Ruto.

The memoranda, which build upon 17 existing accords, cover critical sectors including:Tourism, Local development, Mining sector, Fisheries and aquaculture, Agriculture and animal industry, Transport and logistics, Standards and quality assurance and Investment promotion.

The MOUs are expected to catalyse economic growth, strengthen people-to-people ties, and deliver tangible benefits for citizens of both nations.

Speaking during the meeting, President Museveni emphasised the need for Africa to take full advantage of its natural wealth and rationalise its economic strategies. “We must leverage Africa’s abundant resources and effectively rationalise our economies. The key to Africa’s prosperity lies in increasing the production of goods and services, but we must also consider the market for these products,” he stated. He stressed that market access and consumer engagement should be prioritised to unlock East Africa’s economic potential.

President Museveni’s remarks aligned with the overall spirit of the engagements, which focused heavily on regional infrastructure, trade facilitation, and long-term economic collaboration.

Speaking after the signing ceremony, President Ruto underscored the historical bond between Kenya and Uganda, grounded in shared ideals, mutual respect, and a joint ambition for regional stability and prosperity.

Key among the issues discussed was infrastructure development. The two leaders deliberated on the extension of the Standard Gauge Railway (SGR) from Naivasha to Malaba and into Uganda, as well as the dualling of the Nairobi–Nakuru–Mau Summit road and its eventual expansion into Uganda — projects intended to enhance connectivity and stimulate regional trade.

Barriers to trade featured prominently on the agenda, with both presidents committing to address non-tariff impediments that continue to hinder cross-border commerce. They also resolved to pursue a lasting solution to the longstanding Migingo Island fishing dispute, a recurrent flashpoint in bilateral relations.

President Museveni’s visit to Nairobi marks a renewed push for deeper cooperation, with both leaders reaffirming their commitment to unity and collaboration as the foundation for sustainable growth and shared prosperity across East Africa.