During a recent official visit to Nairobi, Ugandan President Yoweri Museveni and Kenyan President William Ruto signed several key agreements aimed at enhancing bilateral cooperation between the two East African nations. This visit, which took place on July 30, 2025, resulted in the signing of eight new deals, bringing the total number of trade and cooperation agreements between the two countries to 25.

Key Bilateral Agreements Signed

1. Partnership Between National Statistical Bureaus

• -Objective: Enhance technical exchanges and promote legitimate trade.

• -Agencies Involved: Kenya National Bureau of Statistics (KNBS) and Uganda National Bureau of Statistics (UNBS).

2. Migingo Island Dispute Resolution

• -Focus: The longstanding territorial dispute over Migingo Island will be addressed under a new Fisheries and Aquaculture agreement.

• -Goal: Promote cooperation and resolve clashes related to territorial claims between the two nations.

3. Transport and Development Cooperation

• -Projects Involved: Nairobi-Nakuru-Malaba Highway Dualling Project and the Busia Metro Project (2025–2028).

• -Outcome: Improved trade logistics and regional connectivity, including enhancing border infrastructure.

4. Tourism and Cultural Exchange

• -Special Committee: Formation of a committee and appointment of a cultural envoy to promote cross-border tourism and cultural exchange among Kenya, Uganda, and South Sudan.

• -Focus Areas: Promotion of regional cultural heritage and traditional tourism, particularly among the Atekeri and Karamojong peoples.

5. Cooperation in Other Sectors

• -Agriculture: Strengthening collaboration in farming and animal husbandry technologies.

• -Mining: Cooperation in the extraction and management of mineral resources.

• -Property Rights: Development of legal frameworks to protect local governments' property rights.

Presidential Remarks

During the signing ceremony, President William Ruto emphasized the importance of regional cooperation for economic growth. He also highlighted the Nairobi-Nakuru-Malaba Highway project, which is expected to significantly ease movement across the region.

President Museveni urged African youth to focus on the continent’s vast market potential, stressing the need to produce goods and services locally for economic development.

Conclusion: A Step Towards Stronger Regional Cooperation

The bilateral agreements signed between Kenya and Uganda mark a significant step towards deeper regional integration, especially in areas like trade, infrastructure, and cultural exchange. Both leaders expressed their commitment to enhancing cooperation for the mutual benefit of their people and the broader East African community.