President William Ruto has underscored the Kenyan Government's steadfast dedication to elevating trade volumes with Mozambique, citing its potential to foster a favourable trade balance for Kenya.
The President's comments were made during a two-day State Visit to Maputo, where he engaged with President Filipe Nyusi to explore avenues for mutually beneficial collaboration.
Over the years, trade interactions between the two nations have demonstrated a noteworthy trajectory.
In his remarks, President Ruto highlighted the statistics that reveal a growth in imports from Mozambique to Kenya between 2018 and 2022, escalating from Sh3.2 billion to Sh5.2 billion.
In contrast, Kenyan exports to Mozambique showed more moderate growth, reaching Sh1.4 billion from Sh1.2 billion during the same period.
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"In this burgeoning win-win relationship, Mozambique has the upper hand in trade balance terms, yet the opportunities before us take the form of a tide that will lift both our boats," President Ruto stated, emphasizing the potential of this partnership.
He conveyed these sentiments on Thursday in Maputo during the State Visit, wherein the two leaders witnessed the signing of eight Memoranda of Understanding (MoUs).
These agreements are aimed at bolstering the ties between Kenya and Mozambique across various sectors.
The spectrum of cooperation covered in the MoUs is wide-ranging and comprehensive.
The agreements encompass vital areas such as Mutual Legal Assistance, Diplomatic Training, Public Service Training, Investment Promotion, Blue Economy, and the Mutual Recognition of Driving Licences.
President Ruto, while acknowledging the significance of these accords, affirmed his commitment to expedite their implementation, ensuring that they tangibly benefit the people of both nations.
"I am of the view that it is imperative for us to take advantage of the momentum generated in these engagements to expeditiously implement all the bilateral instruments that have been signed," President Ruto emphasized, reflecting his determination to translate words into actions.
The visit also saw President Ruto's exploration of potential synergies between Maputo and Kenyan coastal towns.
He identified multiple shared areas of interest, including tourism, fisheries, the blue economy, maritime transport, agriculture, manufacturing, trade, and industry.
These commonalities form the foundation for mutually advantageous collaborations that can contribute to the growth and prosperity of both nations.
The State Visit culminated in President Ruto being presented with the "Keys to the City of Maputo," the highest distinction bestowed upon an individual by the city.
Additionally, he and the First Lady paid their respects at Heroe's Square by laying wreaths, symbolizing the honor and respect accorded to national heroes.
The entourage accompanying President Ruto included First Lady Rachel Ruto, Cabinet Secretaries Alfred Mutua (Foreign Affairs), Aden Duale (Defence), and Attorney General Justin Muturi, among other dignitaries.
Their presence underscored the gravity of the visit and the commitment of the Kenyan Government to fostering enduring ties with Mozambique.
As President Ruto's visit to Mozambique culminated, it left in its wake a renewed sense of commitment towards collaborative growth, solidified through the signing of the MoUs.
The journey to enhance trade relations and strengthen bilateral cooperation between Kenya and Mozambique continues to chart a promising course, reflecting the shared vision of prosperity and partnership.
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