Kenya, Morocco pledge closer cooperation in trade and development
NICHOLAS OCHIENG AND NYAWIRA GITHINJI-KNA
Kenya and the Kingdom o f Morocco have reaffirmed their commitment to strengthening bilateral cooperation following high-level talks focused on deepening political, economic, and development ties between the two nations.
Speaking during the Ministerial Session of the inaugural Kenya– Morocco Joint Commission for Cooperation in Nairobi, Prime Cabinet Secretary and Cabinet Secretary for Foreign and Diaspora Affairs Musalia Mudavadi noted that the meeting marked a significant step in advancing relations from traditional cooperation to a more structured strategic partnership.
Mudavadi observed that the Joint Commission reflects a deliberate decision by the two governments to institutionalize engagement and expand collaboration across key sectors.
“This Joint Commission convenes at a defining moment in Kenya–Morocco relations.
"It reflects a shared political choice by our two governments to elevate our engagement from cordial cooperation to a structured strategic partnership anchored in clear priorities, institutional follow-through and measurable impact,” he reiterated, reaffirming Kenya’s commitment to strengthening ties with the North African nation.
The Prime CS while welcoming the Moroccan delegation led by Minister of Foreign Affairs of Morocco Nasser Bourita, reaffirmed that Kenya and Morocco have maintained cordial diplomatic relations for nearly six decades that is founded on mutual respect and a shared commitment to Africa’s development.
Importantly, Mudavadi disclosed that the inaugural commission would see the signing of 11 bilateral cooperation instruments covering key sectors including agriculture, justice, health, fisheries and aquaculture, gender equality and women empowerment, cultural cooperation, higher education, scholarships, sports, immigration and wildlife conservation.
“These instruments will serve to translate our shared commitments into practical and impactful cooperation,” stated the Prime CS.
He added that the agreements come at a time when global economic and geopolitical shifts are pushing African countries to build stronger partnerships that support resilient development and sustainable growth.
On the other hand, Mudavadi said Kenya views Morocco as a strategic partner in advancing trade, investment and industrial development, particularly in sectors where Morocco has demonstrated comparative strength such as renewable energy, automotive manufacturing, agro-processing, pharmaceuticals and infrastructure development.