By Lehlohonolo Lehana.
South Africa and Kenya have signed six new cooperation agreements aimed at unlocking the trade, improving transport links, and boosting skills development, in a move that could strengthen economic integration between two of Africa’s most influential economies.
The agreements were signed during Kenyan President William Ruto’s State Visit to South Africa on Thursday, bringing the total number of bilateral agreements and memoranda between the two countries to 34.
The new pacts form part of broader efforts by Pretoria and Nairobi to expand economic cooperation, boost intra-African trade and strengthen people-to-people ties.
Addressing a media briefing at the Union Buildings in Tshwane, President Cyril Ramaphosa said the agreements would provide a framework for enhanced collaboration between the two nations.
“The Memoranda of Understanding that we have just signed provide a legal framework to further expand our cooperation.”
Ramaphosa said the agreements reflect the growing strength of bilateral relations and will support cooperation in a range of strategic sectors.
“This State Visit has further strengthened the bonds of friendship and cooperation between our two countries. It has laid a firm foundation for deeper collaboration in trade, investment, industrialisation, infrastructure development, skills development and regional integration,” Ramaphosa said.
Ruto also highlighted the significance of the agreements, describing them as a reflection of the expanding relationship between South Africa and Kenya.
“As a statement for growing ties, we have today witnessed the signing of six instruments,” he said.
The agreements come at a time when both countries are seeking to maximise opportunities presented by the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) and strengthen regional economic integration.
For all the rhetoric surrounding AfCFTA, both presidents effectively acknowledged that closer economic integration remains incomplete.
Tariff barriers remain in place. Regulatory hurdles persist. Market access remains uneven.
The challenge facing both governments is no longer persuading Africans that integration is desirable. It is making it work.
South Africa and Kenya have maintained close ties since re‑establishing diplomatic relations in 1994, building cooperation across trade, investment, agriculture, education, tourism, defence, home affairs and environmental management.
Kenya is among South Africa’s top destinations, alongside Ghana and Egypt.
Total trade between South Africa and Kenya increased from R9.3 billion in 2016 to R10.5 billion in 2025, registering an average growth rate of 3.5% over the period.