Highly-Anticipated Meeting between Somali Prime Minister and Kenyan Officials Boosts Cooperation

Somali Prime Minister Hamza Abdi Barre touched down in Nairobi on Monday for the Kenya-Somalia Joint Commission for Cooperation (JCC) high-level conference happening from May 3 to 6, 2024.

Top-ranking Kenyan government officials and Somali Ambassador to Kenya, Jabril Ibrahim Abdulle, enthusiastically greeted the Prime Minister’s delegation at the airport.

Ambassador Abdulle expressed to reporters, “Somalia and Kenya have never been closer. Prime Minister Barre’s visit will strengthen this bond and create new opportunities for collaboration.”

During the JCC conference, Prime Minister Barre and Kenyan Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua will jointly lead a ministerial session to enhance cooperation in security, trade, and cross-border operations.

Representatives from both countries will concentrate on devising joint strategies to address security concerns along the border, fight against illicit trade, and promote investment.

PM Barre will engage with Kenyan business groups to expand markets for Somali livestock, fishery products, and agricultural exports. Kenya, in turn, plans to increase its investment in Somali infrastructure ventures, particularly in ports and telecommunications.

Additionally, Prime Minister Barre will meet with UN agencies, NGOs, and Kenyan officials to coordinate efforts in providing food aid, enhancing water management, and reinforcing education and health services. Such partnerships are crucial for strengthening the resilience of local communities in both nations.