Kenya and Rwanda sign 11 bilateral cooperation agreements

Kenya and Rwanda have signed 11 new bilateral agreements to expand cooperation across several sectors, including security, immigration, justice, housing, water, and diaspora affairs. These agreements were finalized during the 10th session of the Kenya-Rwanda Joint Permanent Commission for Cooperation held in Nairobi in October 2026. The deals follow a previous landmark agreement regarding petroleum product supplies through the Northern Corridor.

The new framework includes mutual legal assistance in criminal matters, the transfer of sentenced persons between the two nations, and enhanced coordination on the movement of people. Additionally, the countries agreed to cooperate on water resources, irrigation, and urban development expertise.

Separately, reports have emerged regarding Kenya’s past attempts at sports-based tourism marketing. Mike Macharia, CEO of the Kenya Association of Hotel Keepers and Caterers, stated that Kenya had discussed a five-year partnership with Manchester United as early as 2014. However, the deal reportedly collapsed because government budgeting regulations required yearly cycles, preventing the long-term commitment requested by the club. This occurred before Rwanda successfully implemented its ‘Visit Rwanda’ sponsorship model with various football clubs.