President Ruto attends COMESA Summit as bloc marks 30th anniversary

President William Ruto is in Bujumbura, Burundi for the 23rd Summit of COMESA Heads of State and Government.

This key event marks the 30th anniversary of the trading bloc.

Common Market for Eastern and Southern Africa (COMESA), with a combined market of 640 million people and a GDP of $1 trillion, is a substantial market for Kenya, representing 12.4 percent of its regional trade.

During the summit, President Ruto plans to engage in high-level discussions to strengthen Kenya’s partnerships and deepen regional integration.

"Kenya's exports to COMESA grew by 8.9pc between 2019 and 2023, highlighting the potential for regional trade expansion," said Hussein Mohammed (State House Spokesperson)

President Ruto is also set to meet with leaders from Egypt, Zambia, and Ethiopia to discuss trade enhancements.

His talks with Egyptian President Abdel Fattah el-Sisi will focus on establishing a Joint Trade Committee to reduce trade barriers, while discussions with Zambia’s President Hakainde Hichilema will explore ways to facilitate trade.

Additionally, Dr Ruto will seek support for Kenya's bid to host the Tripartite Free Trade Area (TFTA) Secretariat and the African Union Commission chairperson position.

"This summit is crucial for advancing Kenya’s role in regional economic integration," said Mr Mohamed.