Kenya and Italy have adopted a comprehensive Action Plan for the period 2026–2029 under the framework of the Mattei Plan for Africa.
The agreement was reached during bilateral talks between President William Ruto and Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni during an official visit to Rome.
Kenya has been identified as a key partner in the Mattei Plan, a flagship initiative launched by Meloni in January 2024 aimed at fostering equitable partnerships with African countries, promoting development, addressing migration challenges, and enhancing energy security.
According to a statement from State House, the Action Plan will guide cooperation between the two nations over the next three years, with its implementation subject to regular review through established bilateral mechanisms.
“Both leaders agreed to hold periodic bilateral consultations between the respective Ministries of Foreign Affairs to strengthen coordination on issues of mutual interest in the context of the Memorandum of Understanding on Political Consultations,” the statement said.
The two leaders welcomed the growing momentum in Kenya-Italy relations and committed to enhancing political dialogue through reciprocal high-level visits and sustained engagements on the sidelines of multilateral forums.
They also pledged to explore new areas of mutual interest under their Strategic Partnership.
Central to the agreement is the push to unlock economic opportunities through stronger private sector collaboration.
The leaders underscored the importance of facilitating partnerships between Kenyan and Italian enterprises, including ventures in third markets.
They also welcomed plans to convene a bilateral Business Forum alongside President Ruto’s visit to boost trade and investment ties.
On regional integration, the two countries agreed to leverage the Mattei Plan to support inclusive growth across Africa, particularly within the framework of the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA).
This includes enhancing trade linkages and supporting value chains across the continent.
“Kenya and Italy will explore further synergies within the Mattei Plan to support inclusive growth and regional integration and trade on the African continent,” the statement added.
The leaders further emphasised cooperation in key sectors such as tourism, agriculture, climate resilience, and the blue economy.
They highlighted the need to strengthen food security systems, develop sustainable high-value supply chains, and promote climate-smart solutions, particularly in coffee production and marine resources.
In addition, both sides reaffirmed their commitment to advancing infrastructure development, including transport and telecommunications, as well as promoting investments in renewable energy and energy transition initiatives.
Collaboration in science, technology, and innovation also featured prominently, with a focus on joint research, institutional partnerships, and the practical application of Artificial Intelligence through initiatives such as the Mattei Plan AI Hub for Sustainable Development.
The meeting also saw the two leaders welcome the signing of a Defence Cooperation Agreement, which will guide joint initiatives in training and capacity building, anchored on mutual consent, transparency, and respect for each country’s legal frameworks.
The new Action Plan is expected to further cement Kenya’s position as a strategic partner for Italy in Africa while opening new avenues for economic growth and sustainable development.
