Kenya and UAE Strengthen Ties with a Focus on Employment and Economic Cooperation

Kenya’s Prime Cabinet Secretary and Cabinet Secretary for Foreign and Diaspora Affairs, Musalia Mudavadi, has lauded the United Arab Emirates (UAE) for creating substantial job opportunities for Kenyans in the Middle East. Over 30,000 Kenyans currently work in the UAE, predominantly in domestic service roles, but also in skilled professions. During the 4th Session of the Kenya-UAE Joint Commission for Cooperation (JCC), Mudavadi emphasized the commitment to further solidifying bilateral relations and enhancing employment prospects for Kenyans in the UAE.

Mudavadi expressed deep gratitude to the UAE government, highlighting the mutual benefits derived from the current cooperation and underscoring Kenya’s resolve to strengthen ties with the UAE. “I thank the Government of UAE most sincerely for the many employment opportunities offered to Kenyans in the UAE. I am happy that already there are over 30,000 Kenyans living and working in this beautiful and hospitable country,” said Mudavadi. His remarks underscored the significant role that the UAE plays in providing employment for Kenyans, thereby contributing to Kenya’s economic development.

A key topic of discussion at the JCC was the 2018 labour cooperation agreement between the two countries. Mudavadi called for the expedited implementation of this agreement, stressing the need for reviewing its provisions to better suit the evolving needs of both nations. This initiative aims to ensure that more Kenyans can access skilled job opportunities in the UAE, thus fostering a mutually beneficial partnership.

The JCC session also witnessed the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) between Kenya and the UAE, covering Joint Cooperation on Governance and Government Experience. This MoU, signed by Mudavadi and Shaikh Shakhboot Bin Nahyan Al Nahyan, UAE’s Minister of State in the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, is expected to pave the way for enhanced collaboration in various governance areas.

Moreover, Mudavadi noted that Kenya and the UAE are finalizing the Kenya-UAE Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement (CEPA). This agreement is anticipated to be signed during the upcoming State Visit by the UAE President, His Highness Sheikh Mohammed Bin Zayed Al Nahyan, hosted by Kenya’s President William Ruto. “The CEPA Agreement will provide the necessary foundation for our two countries to continue expanding and deepening our trade and investment ties,” Mudavadi remarked.

Mudavadi’s comments reflected the broader vision of both countries to strengthen economic, political, and social ties. He acknowledged the UAE’s significant support in various developmental projects in Kenya and its direct budgetary assistance to the National Treasury. “The UAE government has assumed a vitally supportive role within Kenya’s global developmental partnership and networks,” he stated.

The JCC talks encompassed a wide range of issues, including trade and investment, defense, security, agriculture, energy, and climate change. Mudavadi urged experts from both nations to set realistic goals and adhere to workable timelines to maximize the outcomes of these initiatives.

Beyond bilateral relations, Mudavadi highlighted the collaborative efforts of Kenya and the UAE at regional and multilateral levels, particularly in advancing shared priorities on peace, security, and climate change. He commended the UAE for its active participation in the Africa Climate Summit (ACS 2023) in Nairobi and its commitment to addressing climate challenges.

As Kenya and the UAE prepare for COP 29 in Baku, Azerbaijan, in November 2024, Mudavadi reaffirmed the importance of developing common positions on global climate issues. He concluded by emphasizing the strong bond between Kenya and the UAE, reflecting a shared vision for socio-economic development and prosperity.