Africa-Press – Kenya. Kenya and Ethiopia have signed a bilateral agreement, reaffirming their commitment to cross-border cooperation. The two countries met in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia, under the Intergovernmental Authority on Development (IGAD).
They aim to improve infrastructure, trade, and socio-economic development along their shared border. The meeting stressed the importance of joint efforts to address cross-border connectivity challenges in the Horn of Africa.
Talks were held within IGAD’s Vision 2050 and the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) framework. This ensures alignment between national infrastructure priorities and regional integration goals.
Both countries committed to peaceful dialogue and trade facilitation. They also agreed to revive discussions on the River Dawa Basin Development Initiatives.
This includes a renewed focus on resource mobilisation for transboundary water development to benefit local communities. Discussions reflected mutual respect and a shared drive for peace, regional connectivity, and inclusive growth.
The two sides recognised Horn of Africa Development Initiatives as key to improving movement of goods, people, and digital services across the border.
They pledged to support the construction of two bridges across River Dawa — at Rhamu and Suftu. These will help communities gain access to health care, education, and markets.
The agreement includes operationalising the One-Stop Border Post (OSBP) at Rhamu and the Trade Facilitation Centre at Suftu. These are seen as key steps in advancing AfCFTA by reducing border delays, cutting transport costs, and boosting competitiveness of regional goods.
“Both States committed to complete the cross-border fibre optic connectivity, improve cross-border digital services, enhance access to digital jobs and emerging technology,” the joint statement read.
They also agreed to finalise a draft bilateral agreement on customs cooperation and other legal frameworks. The countries “noted the importance of consensus” on several infrastructure matters.
These include locations for OSBP arrangements, access roads, bridge construction at Rhamu and Suftu, and fibre optic connection points. Both nations acknowledged IGAD’s role in promoting regional integration as one of the African Union’s recognised economic blocs.
The meeting was attended by senior officials from both countries. The Ethiopian delegation was led by Minister of Finance Ahmed Shide. Kenya’s delegation was headed by PS Cyrell Wagunda from the National Treasury’s State Department for Investment and Asset Management. IGAD Executive Secretary Workneh Gebeyehu was also present.
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