Kenya and Norway have signed a series of new agreements designed to deepen cooperation in peace mediation, conflict resolution, climate action, and sustainable development.
The agreements were signed following high-level discussions between President William Ruto and Norwegian Prime Minister Jonas Gahr Støre during Ruto’s official visit to Norway.
New Partnership on Peace and Climate
President Ruto said the agreements will strengthen collaboration between the two countries in promoting peace and addressing climate challenges through innovative and sustainable solutions.
“We witnessed the signing of agreements to strengthen cooperation in peace mediation and conflict resolution, and to advance collaboration in carbon markets and climate action through market-based approaches that support sustainable development and green growth,” Ruto said.
The agreements are expected to enhance Kenya’s efforts in climate resilience while supporting international peacebuilding initiatives in the region and beyond.
Expanding Trade and Investment Ties
The two leaders also reaffirmed their commitment to strengthening bilateral relations through increased trade, investment, renewable energy development, and regional security cooperation.
Ruto noted that Kenya and Norway share a longstanding partnership built on mutual respect, common values, and a commitment to sustainable development.
“Kenya and Norway enjoy strong and enduring relations anchored on shared values, mutual respect, and a common commitment to peace, sustainable development and inclusive prosperity,” he said.
According to the President, discussions focused on creating new opportunities for businesses and investors in both countries while promoting economic growth and job creation.
New Shipping Routes Under Consideration
A key area of discussion was the possibility of establishing new maritime links between Kenya and Norway to boost trade and improve supply chain efficiency.
The proposed initiative would strengthen connectivity between the Ports of Mombasa and Lamu and Norwegian ports, while opening up new opportunities in logistics, maritime transport, and international trade.
“We are exploring new shipping routes to boost trade, strengthen supply chain resilience, enhance connectivity between the ports of Mombasa and Lamu and Norwegian ports, and expand our shipbuilding capacity,” Ruto said.
Officials believe the move could position Kenya as a strategic maritime gateway for East Africa while expanding trade opportunities with Northern Europe.
Focus on Blue Economy and Green Shipping
The leaders also discussed cooperation in the blue economy, fisheries, ocean conservation, and green shipping technologies.
Both countries expressed interest in advancing sustainable maritime practices, including efforts to reduce carbon emissions in the shipping industry and promote ocean sustainability.
The talks align with Kenya’s broader strategy of leveraging its coastal resources to drive economic growth while protecting marine ecosystems.
Jobs for Kenyan Seafarers
Ruto welcomed a commitment by Norwegian maritime companies, including Wilhelmsen Ship Management, to increase employment opportunities for Kenyan seafarers.
The President said the initiative could see up to 1,000 Kenyan seafarers employed by Norwegian shipping companies by 2030, creating new career opportunities for young professionals in the maritime sector.
“Our partnership continues to be anchored on mutual benefit and a shared ambition to create opportunities for our people and economies,” Ruto said.
The agreements mark another step in strengthening Kenya’s diplomatic and economic ties with Norway as both nations seek to expand cooperation in climate action, trade, maritime development, and regional peacebuilding.
