Our people-to-people ties are flourishing: Ramaphosa hails deepening Kenya-South Africa ties
By Cynthia Lodite, June 4, 2026South African President Cyril Ramaphosa has highlighted the deepening strength in bilateral relations rooted in mutual respect between Kenya and South Africa.
Speaking on Thursday, June 4, 2026, at the Union Buildings in Pretoria, South Africa, Ramaphosa extended a warm welcome to President William Ruto, who is in South Africa for a high-level three-day State Visit.
In his address, Ramaphosa described the reciprocal engagement as a celebration of deep friendship and a shared commitment to Africa’s prosperity.
Standing alongside President Ruto at the Union Buildings, Ramaphosa highlighted the strength of bilateral relations rooted in mutual respect, democratic values, and a common vision for peace and development across the continent.
On his part, the South African Leader described the impact of the visa-free access to Kenyans travelling to South Africa for up to 90 days, which he notes has yielded positive results.
“Our people-to-people ties are flourishing. The decision we took in 2022 to grant visa-free access for up to 90 days has already yielded positive results,” Ramaphosa stated.
Kenya, South Africa trade
On the other hand, according to Ramaphosa, Kenya is one of South Africa’s top trading partners on the continent outside the Southern African Development Community (SADC), with over 60 South African companies already operating in Kenya.
A partnership, he says, has been forged by the immigration decision made in 2022.
“Tourism, business travel and cultural exchanges have grown. This is a clear demonstration of how reducing barriers can bring Africans closer together and advance the vision of Agenda 2063: The Africa We Want,” Ramaphosa said.
Further reports by the South African Government indicate that trade between Kenya and South Africa continues to grow, creating greater balance and mutual benefit.
Ramaphosa praised the tangible benefits of closer ties, noting increased Kenyan exports to South Africa and the successful launch of the first consignments under the AfCFTA Guided Trade Initiative.
“We are proud of the milestone we achieved when South Africa and Kenya launched the first consignments traded under the AFCFTA Guided Trade Initiative. This shows that the AFCFTA is not just an aspiration. It is a living instrument that is already transforming intra-African trade,” he added.