By Issa Hussein - Reporter
4 July 2026 - Kenya has reaffirmed its commitment to deepening bilateral relations with Somalia, pledging continued cooperation in peace and security, trade, regional integration and economic development during celebrations marking the 66th Anniversary of the Union Day of the Federal Republic of Somalia in Nairobi.
Speaking during the event, Cabinet Secretary for Health Aden Duale who represented the Kenyan government, said the enduring partnership between Kenya and Somalia remains vital to the stability and prosperity of the Horn of Africa.
On behalf of the Government and the people of Kenya, Duale conveyed President William Ruto's congratulations to Somalia on its national day, describing the occasion as a celebration of Somalia's unity, resilience and progress.
"Union Day marks a defining moment in Somalia's history, reflecting the enduring aspirations of the Somali people for unity, peace and shared progress," Duale said.
He acknowledged Somalia's continued efforts to strengthen national institutions, improve security and promote economic recovery, noting that the country's progress contributes to regional stability.
Duale said Kenya and Somalia enjoy warm diplomatic relations founded on mutual respect, sovereign equality and good neighbourliness, with cooperation spanning trade, investment, education, agriculture, health, transport, the blue economy and regional integration.
He highlighted the Kenya-Somalia Joint Commission for Cooperation (JCC) as the principal framework for advancing bilateral relations, recalling the successful third session of the commission held in Nairobi in May 2024.
According to the Cabinet Secretary, Kenya is looking forward to convening the fourth JCC session to review progress, identify new areas of collaboration and accelerate implementation of agreed programmes.
He said both countries have significant opportunities to deepen cooperation in cross-border infrastructure, digital innovation, agriculture, climate resilience, skills development and investment.
Duale also noted that Somalia's admission into the East African Community (EAC) in 2024 had opened new opportunities for regional trade and economic integration.
"Together, and within the framework of the African Continental Free Trade Area, we can strengthen regional value chains, improve connectivity and unlock greater opportunities for businesses and investors across our region," he said.
On regional security, Duale reaffirmed Kenya's support for Somalia's efforts to strengthen national institutions and restore lasting peace.
He said Kenya remains committed to its role in the African Union Support and Stabilisation Mission in Somalia (AUSSOM) alongside other African countries, describing the mission as a demonstration of Africa's commitment to finding African solutions to African challenges.
"Kenya reaffirms its support for Somali-led efforts to enhance security, strengthen national institutions and create the conditions necessary for sustainable peace and development," he said.
He added that Kenya would continue working closely with the Federal Government of Somalia, the African Union, the Intergovernmental Authority on Development (IGAD), the East African Community and the United Nations to promote peace and regional stability.
Cabinet Secretary for East African Community, ASALs and Regional Development Beatrice Askul Moe, said relations between Kenya and Somalia have grown stronger since Somalia became the eighth member of the East African Community in 2024.
Speaking during the celebrations, Askul described the event as an opportunity to celebrate Somalia's national unity while reaffirming the longstanding friendship between the two neighbouring countries.
"Kenya and Somalia continue to enjoy excellent diplomatic relations that have grown even stronger since Somalia joined the East African Community in 2024," she said.
She added that the occasion underscored the shared commitment of both countries to regional integration, peace and economic cooperation.
The celebrations were attended by Garissa Governor Nathif Jama,Somalia's Ambassador to Kenya Jabril Abdulle,East African Legislative Assembly (EALA) MP Hassan Omar Hassan,diplomats, senior government officials and other invited guests.
The event concluded with renewed calls for stronger regional cooperation to foster peace, expand trade and investment, and promote sustainable development across the Horn of Africa and the East African Community.
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