President William Ruto has disclosed that his government is exploring a partnership agreement with the United Arab Emirates (UAE) to extend the Standard Gauge Railway (SGR) to connect Kenya, Uganda and South Sudan.
In a statement on January 14, President Ruto noted that the two governments agreed to conduct a feasibility study on the extension of the SGR due to its capacity to foster regional trade.
"We are exploring a partnership agreement with the United Arab Emirates to extend the Standard Gauge Railway to connect Kenya, Uganda and South Sudan.
"As part of the plan, we have agreed to conduct a feasibility study on the extension of the SGR due to its capacity to foster regional integration and promote trade," President Ruto remarked.
At the same time, the Head of State, who is on a visit to the UAE, witnessed the signing of the Kenya-United Arab Emirates Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement (CEPA).
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He affirmed that the agreement will deepen trade ties between Kenya and the UAE by simplifying trade procedures.
"The signing of the historic Kenya-United Arab Emirates Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement (CEPA) will deepen trade ties between the two nations by simplifying trade procedures, promoting industrialisation and stimulating investment.
"It is expected to more than triple Kenya’s exports of meat products, fruits, vegetables, cut flowers, tea and coffee once implemented," President Ruto stated.
Additionally, he declared that the agreement will also provide the UAE with investment opportunities in the energy, water, agriculture, health, airports, logistics, and ICT sectors, which he said aligns with his government's policy of reducing borrowing while enhancing foreign direct investment.
The president added that the government agreed to the UAE's investment in the Galana-Kulalu project and other agricultural initiatives to strengthen its food security agenda.
