President Cyril Ramaphosa’s Official State Visit to Kenya has kicked off in the East African country.
The President is accompanied on the visit by International Relations and Cooperation Minister, Dr Naledi Pandor; Minister of Agriculture, Thoko Didiza; Arts and Culture Minister, Nathi Mthethwa; Minister of Home Affairs, Dr Aaron Motswaledi; Minister of Trade, Industry and Competition, Ebrahim Patel; Human Settlements Minister, Mmamoloko Kubayi; Minister of Justice and Correctional Services, Ronald Lamola and Health Minister, Dr Joe Phaahla.
President Ramaphosa and Kenyan President, Dr William Ruto, will hold bilateral discussions on politics, economic, regional and continental matters.
“The Heads of State will review the status of bilateral relations, including the implementation of previous Memoranda of Understanding and Agreements.
“The two leaders will also witness the signing of instruments on cooperation in correctional services, human settlements, audiovisual co-production, and on building the capacity of the State with the National School of Government.
“President Ramaphosa looks forward to fruitful engagements with President Ruto as the new President of the Republic of Kenya following peaceful and successful elections in August 2022,” the Presidency said.
The Presidency described the East African country as a “strategic partner” for South Africa, with shared “common values which guide our domestic as well as foreign policies.”
“South Africa and Kenya are committed to democracy, good governance, and respect for human rights, including the emancipation of women and full realisation of gender equality; Pan-Africanism and a common vision for the development and Renaissance of Africa, as encapsulated in the Agenda 2063; multilateralism and a rules-based international system, and the resolution of political disputes through peaceful and legal means, including dialogue and negotiations.”
Business forum
During the visit, a business forum consisting of captains of industry from both countries will be held.
The forum will allow participants to “share information and experiences in the business environment and opportunities to enhance trade and investment” between Kenya and South Africa.
“Kenya is East Africa’s largest economy and South Africa’s largest trading partner in Africa, outside the Southern African Development Community (SADC). Its GDP stands at $110.35 billion. South Africa exported over R6 billion worth of goods to Kenya in 2021, against imports of about R535 million from Kenya.
“There are more than 40 South African companies operating in Kenya, with investments in the financial services, real estate, food and beverages, entertainment services, and hospitality sector, among others,” the Presidency said.
