Kenya and Burundi have reaffirmed their commitment to strengthening bilateral relations through enhanced trade, investment, and economic cooperation.

Taking to his official X account moments after holding talks with Burundi’s Minister for Mineral Resources, Energy, Industry, Trade and Tourism, Hassan Kibeya, on the sidelines of the ongoing COMESA Summit of Heads of State and Government, Cabinet Secretary for Investments, Trade, and Industry Lee Kinyanjui said the discussions focused on deepening existing ties between the two nations.

“This afternoon, on the sidelines of the COMESA Summit of Heads of State and Government, I held bilateral talks with Dr Hassan Kibeya, Burundi’s Minister for Mineral Resources, Energy, Industry, Trade & Tourism,” Kinyanjui wrote on X.

“Our two countries enjoy longstanding relations, anchored by the free movement of people. We explored ways to deepen this partnership by enhancing trade, expanding investment opportunities, and strengthening economic ties for mutual growth.”

The meeting comes as regional leaders convene in Kenya for the 24th COMESA Summit, which marks the bloc’s 30th anniversary.

Ruto’s position

President William Ruto, on Wednesday, October 8, 2025, led celebrations marking the 30th anniversary of COMESA by hosting African leaders at State House, Nairobi, for dinner.

During the event, the head of state reaffirmed Kenya’s commitment to regional integration and economic transformation.

Ruto lauds COMESA

Ruto lauded the bloc’s three-decade journey, describing it as a “transformative force” that has expanded markets, deepened trade ties, and strengthened unity among member states.

“We celebrate 30 years of the Common Market for Eastern and Southern Africa (COMESA), a transformative regional bloc that has powered integration across our region. We take pride in our journey of resilience and partnership, which has expanded markets, created opportunities, and strengthened our unity in confronting challenges,” Ruto stated.

He emphasised that the next phase of Africa’s growth will be driven by digital innovation, urging member states to harness technology to accelerate trade, create jobs, and improve governance.

“At the 24th COMESA Summit of Heads of State, we will deliberate on the need to drive change to shape the next phase of Africa’s transformation through digital technology,” he wrote on X.