Kenya and Angola are set to strengthen their diplomatic and economic relations with the resumption of direct flights between Nairobi and Luanda, starting in March. This development follows a meeting between Presidents William Ruto of Kenya and João Lourenço of Angola, held at the Angolan presidential palace in Luanda. The two leaders discussed a variety of bilateral issues, including the restoration of Kenya Airways’ direct flights to Angola, which had been suspended for several years.
The resumption of these flights is expected to facilitate easier travel between the two countries, particularly benefiting professionals, such as teachers, who will now be able to access Angola more conveniently. This move is seen as a step towards enhancing people-to-people connections and improving trade and investment flows between the two nations. In addition to the flights, Angola has agreed to waive visa requirements for Kenyan nationals, reciprocating Kenya’s decision to lift visa requirements for Angolan citizens.
The meeting between the two leaders also delved into regional and continental matters, particularly the peace and security situation in the Great Lakes region. Both Ruto and Lourenço emphasized the importance of collaborative efforts to ensure peace and stability across the African continent. In this regard, the leaders discussed the ongoing Luanda Process for Peace in the eastern Democratic Republic of Congo, which aims to address the persistent security challenges in the region. They agreed on the need for a joint meeting between the Southern African Development Community (SADC) and the East African Community (EAC) to consolidate efforts and ensure the success of peace initiatives in the region.
Beyond peace and security, the two leaders also focused on African Union (AU) institutional reforms. President Ruto, who has been tasked by African heads of state to lead the AU reform process, invited President Lourenço to a retreat in Kenya later this month. The retreat will be held ahead of the upcoming AU Heads of State Summit in February, where key decisions regarding the future of the African Union will be made.
The AU reform process is a significant aspect of Africa’s quest for greater unity and efficiency in addressing the continent’s challenges. As part of these discussions, President Ruto also sought Lourenço’s support for former Prime Minister Raila Odinga’s candidacy for the position of AU Commission chairperson. Odinga’s bid has garnered support from several African leaders, and Ruto’s endorsement is seen as a critical step in strengthening the candidacy.
The leaders also discussed the broader implications of regional cooperation, with an emphasis on the need for African countries to work together to address common challenges, including poverty, unemployment, and climate change. By fostering stronger ties between Kenya and Angola, the two nations aim to create a model of cooperation that can be replicated across the continent.
In conclusion, the resumption of direct flights between Kenya and Angola, alongside the waiver of visa requirements, marks a significant milestone in the relationship between the two countries. The collaboration between Presidents Ruto and Lourenço signals a shared commitment to promoting peace, security, and economic development in Africa. As the two leaders continue to engage on regional and continental issues, their partnership is expected to contribute to a more united and prosperous Africa.
