Kenya, Senegal seal 90-day visa-free travel pact to deepen trade and cooperation
By Kenneth Mwenda, October 21, 2025Kenya and Senegal have agreed to scrap visa requirements for their citizens, allowing travel for up to 90 days. The deal was signed at State House, Nairobi, on Tuesday, October 21, 2025, during President Bassirou Diomaye Faye’s official visit to Kenya.
President William Ruto said the visa waiver marks an important step in strengthening ties between the two nations.
“We recognise the foundations that already exist between our two nations and are pleased to announce the conclusion of a new visa waiver arrangement that will allow citizens of both countries visa-free travel for up to ninety days,” Ruto said at State House.
He noted that the agreement would boost trade, tourism and cultural exchange.
“This important milestone will foster stronger people-to-people ties and boost tourism, trade, and collaboration,” he added.
Ruto said the two countries would continue working together to expand cooperation through the Joint Commission for Cooperation (JCC), which will monitor and review bilateral agreements.
“In a bid to deepen our bilateral ties, the joint commission for cooperation remains a vital platform for monitoring and expanding our bilateral agreements. Kenya is ready to host the inaugural session of the joint cooperation commission in the second half of the year 2026,” he said.
The President also highlighted the need to address low trade volumes between Kenya and Senegal by tackling key barriers.
“On trade and economic cooperation, we noted that trade volumes between Kenya and Senegal remain very low. To address this, we commit to working together to remove barriers, enhance transport and digital infrastructure, while harmonising standards and promoting business-to-business engagement,” Ruto said.
Faye pays tribute to Raila
President Faye’s visit to Kenya followed his attendance at the Mashujaa Day celebrations in Kitui County, where he was the chief guest. He arrived in the country on Sunday, October 19, and was received by Youth, Creative Economy and Sports Cabinet Secretary Salim Mvurya.
During the celebrations at Ithookwe Stadium, Faye paid tribute to the late former Prime Minister Raila Odinga.
“Before I begin, I would like first to take this opportunity to renew the heartfelt condolences of the people of Senegal to the brotherly people of Kenya on the passing of Raila Odinga, a former Prime Minister and a great leader in the political history of Kenya,” he said.
Faye described Raila as a great leader and a pillar of African democracy, and praised Kenya for its democratic progress and regional leadership.
“Our nations share a history of struggle and a vision of an Africa that is united, peaceful, and sovereign,” he said.