Somalia’s Ambassador to Kenya, Jabril Ibrahim Abdulle, has reaffirmed his country’s strong commitment to deepening economic ties with Kenya, highlighting regional trade, investment, and integration as central pillars of Somalia’s future as the country marked its 65th Independence anniversary in Nairobi.

Speaking during a well-attended reception to mark the day at KICC, Nairobi on Monday evening, Abdulle said Somalia’s transformation over the past few years has laid the foundation for meaningful economic partnerships.

He pointed to Somalia’s re-entry into the global financial system, membership in the East African Community (EAC), and improved security as clear signs of a country on the rise.

“We are not just rebuilding. We are reinventing Somalia. This is a new dawn, and Somalia is ready for business,” Abdulle stated.

The ambassador celebrated Somalia’s recovery from decades of conflict, including the lifting of a 30-year UN arms embargo, progress in the constitutional reform process, and major gains in the fight against Al-Shabaab.

He noted that Mogadishu has seen a 90 per cent drop in terror attacks, crediting both military action and regional cooperation.

“This transformation is real, and nowhere is it more visible than in the growing friendship between Somalia and Kenya,” Abdulle said.

Going further, the Ambassador highlighted the role of Kenyan professionals and businesses in Somalia’s development, saying over 40,000 Kenyans are currently working in key sectors such as education, health, construction, and security.

He praised their contribution and assured that they are embraced by Somali communities.

Trade and investment also took centre stage.

The ambassador mentioned last year’s Somalia Investment and Expo Conference, co-hosted with Nation Media Group, and this year’s Somalia–Kenya Trade Week in Eastleigh as clear signs of deepening economic ties.

Somali investors are now expanding across Kenya—from Mombasa to Malaba—creating jobs and boosting local economies.

“As Somalia joins the EAC, our people-to-people connections and trade flows will only grow stronger,” Abdulle said.

The Ambassador also announced that Somalia is preparing to start oil and gas drilling, with a strong focus on reinvesting in infrastructure, health, and education.

“Our vision is clear—we want to uplift every Somali household and build a future driven by innovation,” he added.

The celebration also reflected Somalia’s growing role in international diplomacy.

The ambassador noted that Somalia is now serving as a non-permanent member of the United Nations Security Council, a first in its history, and a signal of Somalia’s intention to be a contributor to peace and not just a recipient.

Kenya’s role in Somalia’s journey was strongly acknowledged.

Abdulle thanked Kenya for hosting Somali refugees, sending peacekeeping troops, and supporting development efforts.

“We honour the Kenyan soldiers who have paid the ultimate price for peace in Somalia,” he stated.

In addition, the ambassador commended the strong ties between the Somali and Kenyan governments, driven by the close working relationship between President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud and President William Ruto.

He said their partnership has brought new energy to regional diplomacy.

“Somalia reaffirms its commitment to peace, to partnership, and prosperity,” he concluded.

In a separate meeting last week, the National Assembly of Kenya pledged to enhance parliamentary collaboration with Somalia through a staff training initiative.

The announcement was made by Speaker Moses Wetang’ula after hosting Ambassador Abdulle, who delivered a message of goodwill from the Speaker of Somalia’s Lower House, Sheikh Adan Mohamed Nur.