Kenya and Djibouti Visa-Free Travel for Trade

Nairobi, Kenya, Jun 11 - In a significant development aimed at fostering people-to-people interactions, trade, and investment, Kenya and Djibouti have mutually agreed to abolish visa requirements for their citizens. 

The move was announced during a joint press conference held by Kenyan President Ruto and Djibouti President Ismail Guelleh. This agreement holds great promise for both countries and opens the door to various opportunities.

Visa-Free Travel Agreement

Kenya has expressed its commitment to eliminate visa barriers for Djiboutian citizens traveling to Kenya. However, the leaders did not provide a specific timeline for the implementation of this new visa-free arrangement.

Labor Migration and Workforce Development

To enhance coordination on labor migration and ensure predictability, both governments have agreed to accelerate the negotiation and finalization of a comprehensive labor agreement between the two states. Additionally, they have established a Joint Technical Committee dedicated to workforce development efforts.

• Kenya has offered 300 positions in its higher learning institutions to Djiboutian students at the same fees applicable to Kenyan students.
• The negotiation of a framework for reciprocal recognition of certificates issued by respective institutions of higher learning is in progress.
• Both countries will support English language training in Djibouti's curricula and provide French language training to Kenyan graduates seeking employment abroad.

Joint Business Council

Recognizing the untapped potential for expanding commercial relations, Kenya and Djibouti have agreed to establish a Joint Business Council. 

This council will work towards synchronizing trade missions and improving market access, particularly within the framework of the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA).

Addressing Air Connectivity

One significant obstacle to trade between the two countries is the absence of direct flights. To address this, President Ruto and President Guelleh have committed to generating demand for direct flights, including a review of the existing Bilateral Air Service Agreement. The restoration of air connectivity is expected to have a profound impact on enhancing trade between the nations.

Digital Connectivity

Recognizing the importance of digital connectivity in fostering innovation and expanding e-commerce, Kenya will review Djibouti Telecoms' proposal to sell its undersea cable infrastructure to Kenya's TEAMs. 

This review will consider technological advancements and the requirements of both parties. Institutional discussions on this matter are set to take place in Nairobi within the next two weeks.

Memorandums of Understanding (MOUs)

Following the meeting, Kenya and Djibouti signed four MOUs:

• Energy Development: An MOU to facilitate cooperation in the field of energy development.
• Youth Affairs and the Arts: An MOU on Technical Cooperation in the Development of Youth Affairs and the Arts, aiming to develop state-of-the-art facilities in sports and arts.
• Foreign Service Academy: An MOU on mutual cooperation in the Foreign Service Academy.
• Tourism: An agreement on collaboration in the field of tourism to strengthen exchanges and partnerships between the two countries and promote sustainable tourism development.

This agreement holds the potential to strengthen the bilateral relationship between Kenya and Djibouti, boost economic ties, and facilitate greater people-to-people interactions and trade. It reflects a commitment to regional cooperation and integration in East Africa.