Kenya–Somalia relations are showing unexpected improvement under President William Ruto and Somali President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud. Contrary to early predictions that Ruto would take a hardline stance, he has adopted a pragmatic and cooperative approach. Since taking office, Ruto has reaffirmed Kenya’s commitment to working with Somalia on shared priorities, including degrading Al-Shabaab, boosting cross-border security, and enhancing economic cooperation. A key agenda item is the miraa trade. Ruto seeks to streamline exports directly from Kenyan farmers to Somalia, cutting out middlemen who dominate the lucrative trade. While the outcome remains unclear, the move reflects his focus on supporting local producers while navigating sensitive political implications for Somalia. Ruto’s foreign policy toward Somalia emphasizes continuity, particularly in maintaining political influence in Jubaland, an area of strategic importance along the Somali–Kenyan border. The appointment of Aden Barre Duale, an ethnic Somali from the Ogadeen clan, as Kenya’s Defence Minister underscores this strategy. Although challenges remain, such as the unresolved maritime dispute and potential tensions over trade, early fears of a disruptive Kenyan foreign policy have proven unfounded. Instead, Ruto has emerged as a cautious yet creative leader, strengthening regional ties and fostering cooperation with Somalia.
Kenya and Somalia are making a fresh attempt to improve strained bilateral relations, with Kenyan Foreign Minister Rachel Omamo visiting Mogadishu to meet her Somali counterpart, Mohamed Abdirizaq. Backed by the United States and other international partners, the initiative aims to strengthen cooperation on security, economic ties, and political dialogue. Both nations have a shared interest in stabilizing their relationship, especially in countering the growing Al-Shabaab threat. The militant group has entrenched itself in Somalia’s Gedo region, launching frequent attacks into Kenya’s Mandera County. Improved intelligence sharing and coordinated border operations could help degrade Al-Shabaab’s capabilities and reduce the need for controversial Kenyan airstrikes, which have often fueled tensions.