Diplomacy

Abiy Calls for Easier Ethiopia-Kenya Border Trade and Economic Ties

AI SUMMARY

Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed has urged easier border trade and closer economic cooperation between Ethiopia and Kenya during celebrations in Eldoret.

Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed called for easier cross-border trade for farmers, producers, and businesses during Kenya's Mashujaa Day celebrations in Eldoret on October 20, 2026.
The remarks follow Ethiopia's June issuance of Border Trade Directive No. 1144/2026 to regulate simplified small-scale commercial exchanges.
Kenyan authorities are assessing the feasibility of opening a second border crossing at Sololo-Dukale in Marsabit County, alongside the existing Moyale crossing.
Ethiopian Electric Power announced preparations in September 2026 to double electricity exports to Kenya from 200 megawatts to 400 megawatts starting in December.
Abiy highlighted Safaricom and M-Pesa operations in Ethiopia as key examples of private-sector cross-border investment and digital financial inclusion.
The prime minister advocated for increased people-to-people movement, cultural exchanges, and educational opportunities between the two nations.