Kenya and Senegal have signed a historic visa-free travel agreement, marking a major milestone in strengthening diplomatic and economic relations between the two African nations.
The agreement, signed on Tuesday at State House, Nairobi, by Interior Cabinet Secretary Kipchumba Murkomen and Senegal’s Foreign Affairs Minister Sheikh Niang, was witnessed by President William Ruto and his Senegalese counterpart, Bassirou Diomaye Faye, who is on an official visit to Kenya.
Under the new arrangement, citizens of both countries holding diplomatic or ordinary passports will be able to enter, stay, and transit through either nation without a visa for a period not exceeding 90 days.
Speaking during a joint media briefing, President Ruto hailed the deal as a “milestone that will foster people-to-people ties, boost tourism, trade, and collaboration.” He added that the agreement aligns with Africa’s integration goals under the African Union’s Agenda 2063 and the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA).
The two leaders also discussed a wide range of bilateral and regional issues, including trade, energy, peace and security, and sports cooperation. Ruto announced that Kenya will host the inaugural session of the Joint Cooperation Commission (JCC) in the second half of 2026 to enhance coordination on shared development goals.
Both countries acknowledged that current trade volumes remain low and committed to removing barriers, improving transport and digital infrastructure, and promoting business partnerships.
On sports, President Ruto welcomed Senegal’s support as Kenya prepares to co-host the 2027 Africa Cup of Nations (AfCON), citing opportunities for joint training programs and exchange initiatives.
In energy and blue economy sectors, the two nations agreed to collaborate on port development, fisheries, and maritime governance. They also reaffirmed their commitment to peace, security, and African unity, pledging to champion fair representation and sustainable growth across the continent.
