Kenya’s trade with Somalia is showing renewed momentum following Mogadishu’s entry into the East African Community (EAC).
Regional integration and diaspora capital have remained key drivers of growth.
Speaking during the second Somalia–Kenya Diaspora Trade Week in Nairobi, Cabinet Secretary for EAC and Regional Development Beatrice Askul said Somalia’s admission into the bloc in 2024 marked a turning point in bilateral and regional commerce.
She noted that the EAC Common Market Protocol, harmonised trade rules and access to a larger regional market are expected to deepen commercial ties and unlock new investment opportunities.
Kenya and Somalia share longstanding trade and cultural links rooted in Indian Ocean commerce.
Kenya’s exports to Somalia rebounded strongly between 2020 and 2023 after earlier declines, while Somalia’s imports into Kenya have also fluctuated but remain steady.
In the quarter ending September 2024, Somalia imported goods and services worth Sh5 billion from Kenya. Nairobi has remained critical and vital as a regional trading hub.
Somalia’s Minister for Commerce and Industry, Gamal Mohamed Hassan, said ongoing reforms are strengthening institutions and improving the country’s business climate, positioning it to benefit from deeper regional integration.
Provisions under the EAC Customs Union and free movement of goods framework are also expected to further accelerate cross-border trade
