Monday May 6, 2024
Nairobi (HOL) - Somali Prime Minister Hamza Abdi Barre arrived in Nairobi on Monday for the Kenya-Somalia Joint Commission for Cooperation (JCC) high-level conference, which has been ongoing from May 3 to 6, 2024.
High-ranking Kenyan government officials and Somali Ambassador to Kenya, Jabril Ibrahim Abdulle, warmly welcomed the Prime Minister's delegation at the airport.
"The relationship between Somalia and Kenya is at its strongest point ever. Prime Minister Barre’s visit will further solidify this bond and foster new avenues of cooperation," Ambassador Abdulle told reporters.
Prime Minister Barre and Kenyan Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua will co-chair a ministerial session at the JCC conference aimed at bolstering collaboration in various areas such as security, trade, and cross-border cooperation.
Delegates from both nations will be focused on developing joint strategies to tackle security issues along the shared border, combat illegal trade, and foster investment.
PM Barre is expected to meet with representatives from Kenyan business associations, focusing on opening up markets for Somali livestock, fishery products, and other agricultural exports. Kenya, in return, is poised to further its investment in Somali infrastructure projects, especially in ports and telecommunications.
Prime Minister Barre will also hold meetings with UN agencies, NGOs, and Kenyan officials to coordinate efforts in delivering food aid, improving water management, and bolstering education and health services. Such cooperation will be crucial in enhancing the resilience of local communities in both countries.