Kenya, DR Congo to open consulates to boost trade

President Kenyatta receives President Joseph Kabila of the Democratic Republic of Congo 

By EDWIN MUTAI and PPS

Kenya and the Democratic Republic of Congo will soon establish consulates in Goma and Mombasa to bolster trade and investment between the two countries.

A Joint Commission for Cooperation (JCC) between two countries could also be established to strengthen the existing bilateral ties.

President Uhuru Kenyatta, who spent the first full day in office at State House Nairobi on Wednesday where he met President Joseph Kabila, said there was need for the two countries to enhance the ties.

Speaking at a meeting with President Kabila who was among 11 African Heads of State who attended his swearing in ceremony on Tuesday, President Kenyatta emphasized the need for the two countries to work closely to bolster peace in the great lakes region.

Mr Kenyatta said the region could not realise its development endeavours, including increased trade and investment, in the absence of peace and stability.

He said Kenya’s future is tied to its cooperation with its regional and continental partners and reiterated his administration’s commitment to strengthening ties with its partners.

President Kenyatta said there was need for Kenya and DRC to establish consulates on reciprocal basis, in Goma and Mombasa, in order to facilitate provision of consul services in the two countries.

President Kabila said although his country is not Kenya’s immediate neighbour, the two countries shared a lot in common.

He said there is a lot of business contact between Kenya and DRC and emphasized the need to facilitate further engagement for the benefit of the people of the two countries at all levels.

President Kabila said peace and stability have been his priority in the last 10 years and appreciated the Kenyan Government’s role in stabilising North and South Kivu provinces in DRC.

Deputy President William Ruto, who was also sworn in with President Kenyatta, said there is need to establish a Joint Commission for Cooperation to provide the framework that would coordinate cooperation between the two countries.

Outgoing Foreign Affairs Minister Prof Sam Ongeri, his Cooperative Development counterpart Joseph Nyagah, Head of Public Service and Secretary to the Cabinet Francis Kimemia and Internal Security Permanent Secretary Mutea Iringo attended the meeting.

President Kenyatta and Mr Ruto are expected to name members of their cabinet after officially taking over power from former President Mwai Kibaki on Tuesday