Rabat, Morocco | May 27, 2025 — Kenya is entering a new chapter in its diplomatic and economic engagement with the Kingdom of Morocco. A series of landmark developments are redefining bilateral ties, strengthening cooperation across key sectors, and positioning both countries as influential players in North and Sub-Saharan Africa.
1. Kenya Endorses Morocco’s Autonomy Plan for Western Sahara
On May 26, 2025, Kenya officially endorsed Morocco’s autonomy plan for Western Sahara. The proposal offers self-governance for the disputed territory under Moroccan sovereignty. Backed by several African, Western, and Arab nations, the plan is a cornerstone of Morocco’s diplomatic agenda. Kenya’s endorsement reflects a significant foreign policy shift and places Nairobi firmly alongside Rabat on one of Africa’s longest-standing geopolitical issues.
2. Inauguration of Kenyan Embassy in Rabat
In a historic move, Kenya inaugurated its first-ever embassy in Rabat, Morocco’s capital. The embassy was officially opened by Prime Cabinet Secretary and Cabinet Secretary for Foreign & Diaspora Affairs of the Republic of Kenya Musalia Mudavadi, who emphasized Kenya’s commitment to expanding its diplomatic footprint and influence across the continent.
“This milestone marks a renewed commitment to fostering stronger ties with Morocco, building on a history of warm relations, while also working to rebalance trade in a way that supports equitable economic exchange,” Mudavadi stated.
Ambassador Jessica Gakinya will lead the new mission, with a mandate to deepen bilateral engagement and advocate for Kenya’s strategic interests in North Africa.
3. Signing of Strategic Bilateral Agreements
During the high-level visit, Kenya and Morocco signed five Memoranda of Understanding (MoUs) focused on enhancing cooperation and institutional development. The agreements cover:
- Housing and Urban Development
- Youth Affairs
- Diplomatic Training
- Trade Promotion
- Public Service Capacity Building
These MoUs aim to foster sustainable partnerships and facilitate knowledge exchange between the two countries
4. Advancing Trade and Agricultural Exchange
As Morocco continues to play a key global role in fertilizer and phosphate production, both nations have agreed to accelerate the export of agricultural inputs to Kenya. In return, Kenya aims to boost the export of tea, coffee, and fresh produce to Moroccan markets. The move is expected to enhance food security, stabilize input prices, and support smallholder farmers in both regions.
“While our imports, mainly fertilizers and other key commodities stand at KSh 12 billion, our exports remain significantly lower at just KSh. 500 million. We explored practical strategies to boost the volume and diversity of Kenyan exports to foster a more balanced and mutually beneficial trade relationship.” Mudavadi wrote on twitter.
5. Strengthening Regional Integration and Infrastructure
