Kenya and the Democratic Republic of Congo have always enjoyed a cordial relationship. Past diplomatic visits like those between former Presidents’ Kibaki and Kabila laid the foundations for the ongoing synergies between the two independent countries.
We are not just linked by our cultural similarities, including our love for rhumba and having Kiswahili as our national language, but we also share a common vision for peace, security and prosperity for the region.
This shared vision has seen Kenya midwife peace deals amongst the people of DRC and has also facilitated the establishment of diplomatic missions between the two countries, a sign of our mutual respect and intended long-term cooperation.
So significant has our relationship with the DRC been that President Uhuru Kenyatta was the only head of state present during the inauguration of President Tshisekedi in January 2019. This show of solidarity has strengthened the relationship between the two countries with President Kenyatta conducting a three-day state visit in Kinshasa, in April 2021.
This visit was aimed at enhancing the two countries’ relationship in trade and security. On matters trade, citizens were encouraged to invest in the two countries, especially now that the DRC is enjoying peace within its borders. The areas identified for investment in DRC include insurance, aviation, hospitality and mining and construction.
Two major undertakings between Kenya and DRC will facilitate this vision. First, is the signing of the Kenya Airways and Congo Airways agreement. This partnership covers the areas of the countries’ mutual interest, including aircraft maintenance and the training of airline personnel.
It is also concerned with sharing of excess capacity between carriers as and when they occur. Also established is a mutual understanding regarding the sustainability of the airlines with particular focus on code and route sharing towards envisioned expansion within the continent and globe.
Tied to this is the…