Kenya, UAE sign defence and border control pacts to boost peace
The President added that the two countries are also working closely on matters of peace and defence.
Kenya has moved to strengthen its relationship with the United Arab Emirates through the signing of seven key agreements that will deepen cooperation in security, trade, infrastructure, and energy.
President William Ruto and UAE’s Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Affairs Minister Sheikh Abdullah Bin Zayed Al Nahyan witnessed the signing ceremony at State House, Nairobi on Thursday.
The two leaders reaffirmed their commitment to a strong and productive partnership.
"We are focused on deepening diplomatic relations with the United Arab Emirates (UAE) and delivering on our Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement to ensure we strengthen economic collaboration for the mutual benefit of our two nations," said President Ruto.
The President added that the two countries are also working closely on matters of peace and defence.
"We are also strengthening security collaboration at the regional and global levels to promote peace and stability," he said.
The signed agreements cover military affairs, economic development, transport, customs, energy, the establishment of a joint business council, and railway development.
On energy, the deal will support the development of renewable energy sources such as solar, wind, and geothermal.
It also includes plans for technology transfer and technical training to support Kenya’s clean energy shift.
"This is an important step towards our clean energy goals. The UAE’s expertise will help us move faster and achieve more," said Ruto.
The transport agreement provides a platform for both countries to cooperate in the development of road, rail, and air transport systems.
It outlines collaboration on joint studies, infrastructure safety, investment opportunities, and regulatory alignment to support innovation in transport.
To tighten trade enforcement and protect economic interests, a customs cooperation deal was signed.
This will boost the fight against illegal trade, improve border control, and enhance information sharing between the two countries.
"Through this cooperation, we aim to protect our borders and secure our economic interests," Ruto said.
President William Ruto and His Highness Sheikh Abdullah Bin Zayed Al Nahyan at State House, Nairobi on May 8, 2025. PHOTO/PCS
In an effort to boost private sector growth, the two governments agreed to establish a Kenya-UAE Joint Business Council. This council will help promote business collaboration, attract investment, and give joint recommendations to both governments on trade and economic matters.
The Kenya Railways Corporation and Etihad Rail Company also formalised a partnership to develop Kenya’s railway sector.
The agreement includes plans for knowledge sharing, joint feasibility studies, testing of new technologies, and long-term cooperation in the rail industry.
A key agreement on military cooperation commits both countries to working together under national laws and international obligations.
The aim is to build stronger defence systems, support peacebuilding, and promote institutional partnerships that enhance national and regional security.
"This military cooperation is about peace, stability, and building the ability to respond to shared threats," Ruto said.
The seven agreements come months after Kenya and the UAE signed a Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement in Abu Dhabi, a deal that laid the foundation for broader cooperation between the two countries.
"This partnership reflects our shared commitment to mutual growth and a better future. We are deepening our friendship through practical cooperation in areas that matter to our people," Ruto said.