Kenya and Senegal have strengthened their diplomatic and economic relations by signing several bilateral agreements, including a landmark visa waiver that will allow citizens of both countries to travel visa-free for up to 90 days.
President William Ruto and his Senegalese counterpart, Bassirou Diomaye Faye, on Tuesday presided over the signing of the deals aimed at expanding cooperation 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 Agreement that allows citizens of both countries visa-free travel for up to 90 days,” President Ruto said at State House, Nairobi, after hosting President Faye. “This important milestone will foster stronger people-to-people ties and boost tourism, trade, and collaboration.”
While President Ruto assured that citizens of both countries would enjoy easier travel, he noted that the Joint Commission for Cooperation would play a key role in ensuring the agreements are properly implemented. Officials from both sides will determine when the visa-free policy takes effect and outline any additional travel requirements.
Kenya, however, will still require travellers from Senegal to complete a free electronic travel authorisation (eTA) before boarding their flights.
Both governments cautioned that the visa-free arrangement does not permit illegal overstays.
“Kenya is ready to host the inaugural session of the Joint Cooperation Commission (JCC) in the second half of 2026. Through the JCC, we will strengthen cooperation in several sectors that are mutually beneficial to our two nations. In particular, we will engage and seek to conclude new instruments that will expand our bilateral cooperation,” President Ruto said.
Since January, Kenya has scrapped visa requirements for all African countries except Libya and Somalia, whose citizens must still file an eTA at least 72 hours before travel.
President Ruto noted that trade volumes between Kenya and Senegal remain low and called for greater efforts to boost commerce by removing trade barriers, improving transport and digital infrastructure, harmonising standards, and promoting business-to-business partnerships.
Kenya also expressed interest in learning from Senegal’s sports development model to enhance its own capacity as it prepares to co-host the 2027 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON).
“We commit to exploring joint initiatives such as exchange programmes for coaches and athletes, co-hosting regional tournaments, and establishing joint training camps. By combining Kenya’s strength in athletics and Senegal’s prowess in football, we aim to uplift our youth and enhance cultural diplomacy.”
On peace and security, both leaders welcomed ongoing efforts to promote regional stability and pledged to work together in addressing conflicts across the continent.
The two nations also pledged to support the African Union (AU) Reform Agenda, aligning with what President Ruto described as the vision of creating a union capable of achieving the goals of Africa’s Agenda 2063.
President Ruto said that the aspirations outlined in Agenda 2063 would transform the AU into a strong, dynamic institution capable of steering the continent toward prosperity while safeguarding the interests of all Africans.
President Bassirou Diomaye Faye served as the chief guest during Kenya’s 62nd Mashujaa Day celebrations, held on Monday in Kitui County.
In his address, President Diomaye urged people to recall the heroes and heroines of Africa who fought for freedom and whose actions shaped the continent’s history.
He also mourned the passing of the late Prime Minister Raila Odinga, referring to him as a true champion of democracy and a leader whose legacy would inspire generations to come.
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