ROME, Italy — Kenya and Italy have formally adopted a comprehensive Action Plan for 2026–2029 under the framework of the Mattei Plan for Africa, signalling a renewed push to strengthen bilateral cooperation across trade, energy, and development sectors.
The agreement was reached during high-level talks in Rome between President William Ruto and Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni, marking a significant milestone in the growing strategic partnership between the two countries.
According to a statement from the State House, the Action Plan will guide collaboration over the next three years, with implementation subject to periodic review through established bilateral mechanisms.
Both leaders are committed to enhancing political dialogue through regular consultations between their respective foreign ministries and sustained high-level engagements.
The Mattei Plan, launched by Italy in 2024, positions Kenya as a key partner in advancing equitable partnerships with African nations. It focuses on promoting development, addressing migration challenges, and strengthening energy security across the continent.
Central to the new framework is the expansion of economic cooperation. The two countries pledged to facilitate stronger partnerships between Kenyan and Italian private sector players, including joint ventures in third markets.
Plans are also underway to convene a bilateral business forum alongside President Ruto’s visit, aimed at boosting trade and investment flows.
On regional integration, both sides agreed to leverage the initiative to support inclusive growth under the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA). This includes strengthening trade linkages and developing value chains to enhance intra-African commerce.
The leaders also identified key sectors for collaboration, including tourism, agriculture, climate resilience, and the blue economy. They emphasised the need to strengthen food security systems, promote climate-smart agriculture—particularly in coffee production—and sustainably develop marine resources.
Infrastructure development and energy transition featured prominently in the discussions. Kenya and Italy are committed to advancing investments in transport and telecommunications, as well as scaling up renewable energy initiatives to support sustainable growth.
In addition, both countries agreed to deepen cooperation in science, technology, and innovation. This includes joint research programmes, institutional partnerships, and the application of artificial intelligence through initiatives such as the Mattei Plan AI Hub for Sustainable Development.
The meeting also saw the signing of a Defence Cooperation Agreement, which will guide joint initiatives in training and capacity building. Both leaders underscored that the agreement will operate within the bounds of mutual consent, transparency, and respect for each country’s legal frameworks.
The new Action Plan is expected to cement Kenya’s role as a strategic partner for Italy in Africa while opening new avenues for economic growth, regional integration, and long-term development.
As global competition for influence in Africa intensifies, the Kenya–Italy partnership reflects a broader shift toward structured, policy-driven cooperation aimed at delivering tangible economic and social outcomes.
