Kenya Explores SGR Extension to Foster Regional Trade Through UAE Partnership

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Extending the railway network is expected to further enhance trade routes, providing landlocked countries like Uganda and South Sudan with access to Kenya’s port facilities.

Kenyan President William Ruto has announced plans to collaborate with the United Arab Emirates (UAE) in extending the Standard Gauge Railway (SGR) to link Kenya, Uganda, and South Sudan. Photo/William Ruto.

Kenyan President William Ruto has announced plans to collaborate with the United Arab Emirates (UAE) in extending the Standard Gauge Railway (SGR) to link Kenya, Uganda, and South Sudan.

The partnership is aimed at enhancing regional integration and bolstering trade across East Africa.

Speaking after holding talks with UAE Investment Minister Mohamed Hassan Alsuwaidi in Abu Dhabi, President Ruto disclosed that a feasibility study on the railway extension will be conducted as a critical first step.

The move underscores Kenya’s commitment to improving infrastructure and fostering economic connectivity within the region.

“The Standard Gauge Railway has already demonstrated its potential to promote trade and regional integration. Extending it to Uganda and South Sudan will open up new opportunities for economic growth and development across East Africa,” Ruto said.

The SGR, which currently runs from Mombasa to Naivasha, has been pivotal in reducing transportation costs and improving efficiency for businesses within Kenya.

Extending the railway network is expected to further enhance trade routes, providing landlocked countries like Uganda and South Sudan with access to Kenya’s port facilities.

In addition to infrastructure development, President Ruto and Minister Alsuwaidi discussed investment opportunities in Kenya’s agricultural sector.

The UAE pledged to invest in the Galana-Kulalu project, a large-scale irrigation scheme aimed at boosting food production in the country.

The Galana-Kulalu project, once fully operational, is expected to be a game-changer in addressing food insecurity in Kenya. UAE investment in this initiative will help modernize agricultural practices, increase productivity, and ensure the country’s food systems are more resilient to climate challenges.

“These agricultural partnerships will go a long way in strengthening our food security agenda. By collaborating with international investors like the UAE, we can leverage advanced technology and expertise to boost local food production,” President Ruto remarked.

The talks also touched on other agricultural initiatives, with the UAE expressing interest in partnering with Kenya to improve food storage, distribution, and export opportunities.

The bilateral discussions mark another milestone in Kenya’s growing relationship with the UAE. As one of the key investors in Kenya, the UAE has consistently supported infrastructure and economic development projects in the country.

The proposed SGR extension and agricultural investments signify a shared vision between Kenya and the UAE for a more connected and prosperous East Africa. Both countries have committed to maintaining close collaboration to ensure the successful implementation of these transformative initiatives.

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