Kenya, South Africa Sign Six New Deals During Ruto Visit

South Africa, June 04, 2026 - Kenya and South Africa have signed six new agreements aimed at strengthening economic and cultural ties and cooperation between the two countries.

The agreements were signed between ministers of both nations in a ceremony witnessed by President William Ruto and his South African counterpart Cyril Ramaphosa at the Union Buildings in Pretoria on Thursday.

Agreements signed between encompassed sectors such as shipping and maritime, gender equality and empowerment, technical and vocational training, arts, culture and heritage, and sports and recreation.

Among the MOUs signed by Mining and Blue Economy Cabinet Secretary Hassan Joho is one on Shipping and Maritime, aimed at enhancing collaboration in maritime safety and security, port development and management, maritime education and training, research and innovation, as well as recognition of seafarers’ certificates of competency.

“These agreements reflect our shared commitment to deepening economic ties, expanding trade opportunities, creating jobs, and advancing regional integration for the prosperity of our people,” Joho said.

 On the other hand, Trade Cabinet Secretary Lee Kinyanjui signed a Trade Agreement aimed at strengthening economic cooperation and expanding opportunities for businesses in both countries.

 Other Cabinet Secretaries that participated in the signing of the agreements include the General Cabinet Secretary Hanna Cheptumo and Education Cabinet Secretary  Julius Ogamba.

President Ruto maintained that the fresh agreements will reinforce the healthy relationships the two nations have had over the past three decades.

“We are also positioning ourselves to unlock greater trade opportunities through the African Continental Free Trade Area, expand markets, boost investment, and drive inclusive growth,” Ruto stated.

President  Ruto is on a three-day State Visit in South Africa, from Wednesday, June 3 to Friday, June 5, 2026, following an invitation from President Ramaphosa.

The two Presidents held bilateral talks focusing on strengthening cooperation in key areas, including trade, investment, regional integration, peace and security, as well as broader continental development priorities.

The president is also expected to engage in a South Africa–Kenya Business Forum at Gallagher Estate in Midrand, Johannesburg, which will bring together government officials and private sector stakeholders from both countries.

"The Business Forum will focus on deepening economic cooperation, facilitating business partnership and exploring strategies for unlocking the full potential of trade and investment between the two countries in mutually benefit.