Kenya-Burundi Bilateral Relations
The Republic of Kenya and the Republic of Burundi maintain a relationship characterized by warmth and cooperation, akin to Kenya’s interactions with other partner states of the East African Community (EAC). This bilateral relationship is underpinned by historical ties and the essential, collective aspiration to cooperate within the framework of the EAC, which serves the mutual interests and overall advancement of the region.
In a demonstration of their commitment to diplomatic engagement, both the Republic of Kenya and the Republic of Burundi have established embassies in each other’s capital cities, with the Embassy of the Republic of Kenya in Bujumbura being inaugurated in December 2007.
At the regional level, the Republic of Kenya and the Republic of Burundi actively participate in collaboration through their membership in several regional organizations. These include the East African Community (EAC), the International Conference of the Great Lakes Region (ICGLR), the Common Market for Eastern and Southern Africa (COMESA), and the African Union (AU). This active participation reflects their dedication to regional cooperation and the pursuit of integrated development strategies for their nations and the wider region.
Bilateral Cooperation
The ongoing collaboration between the two nations in multiple sectors of socio-economic and political growth is firmly based on the Joint Permanent Commission for Cooperation (JPCC), established in May 2008, which serves as the principal structure for bilateral cooperation.
The scope of cooperation encompassed by the JPCC covers several areas, including Agriculture and Livestock Development, Trade and Investment, Air Transport, Education and Research, Tourism, Security, Technical Assistance in various developmental fields, and Political Consultations, among others.
During the State Visit to Kenya by His Excellency President Evaristé Ndayishimye, an additional eight (8) Memorandums of Understanding (MOUs) were signed.
| Number | MoU Description |
|---|---|
| 1 | MoU between the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Kenya and the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Development Cooperation of Burundi on Political Consultations |
| 2 | MoU between the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Kenya and the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Development Cooperation of Burundi on Diplomatic Training |
| 3 | MoU on Agriculture, Livestock and Fisheries |
| 4 | MoU on Sports, Culture and Heritage |
| 5 | MoU on Cooperative Development |
| 6 | MoU in the Area of Public Service |
| 7 | MoU on cooperation in the Field of Tourism |
| 8 | MOU between the respective Chambers of Commerce |
Kenya-Burundi Trade & Investment Relations
Burundi is a significant trading partner for Kenya. Within the East African Community (EAC), Kenya stands as the foremost investor in Burundi. Both Kenyan corporate entities and small & medium enterprises (SMEs) are actively engaged in business within the country. Notable Kenyan corporate investors include Kenya Commercial Bank (KCB), Diamond Trust Bank (DTB), Kobil, and Jubilee Insurance. Additionally, Kenya Airways plays a pivotal role as one of the main airlines serving the Bujumbura route. Investments by Kenyans also extend to two institutions of higher education.
The strategic role of Burundi in promoting regional economic growth is undeniable. Bujumbura serves as the regional gateway and a crucial access point to Eastern DRC and the broader hinterland of Central Africa. The Eastern DRC border towns such as Uvira, Bukavu, and Goma, which are readily accessible from Bujumbura, predominantly receive their supplies from Burundi.
With its untapped market presenting substantial opportunities, Kenyan entrepreneurs and investors are encouraged to leverage the strong bilateral relations between the two nations. Establishing a presence in Burundi could yield significant benefits from the burgeoning trade and investment opportunities. Potential investment sectors include Agro-processing, Education, Health & Medical Services, Finance & Banking, Energy, Light Manufacturing, and the Construction industry.