Kenya’s United Democratic Alliance (UDA) and Burundi’s ruling party, the National Council for the Defence of Democracy–Forces for the Defence of Democracy (CNDD-FDD), have agreed to strengthen cooperation between the two parties.
The agreement was reached when UDA Secretary General Senator Hassan Omar Hassan hosted CNDD-FDD Secretary General Révérien Ndikuriyo at the UDA Headquarters at Hustler Plaza.
The discussions focused on strengthening relations between Kenya and Burundi, with the two parties agreeing to cooperate and learn from each other on party building.
Kenya and Burundi have maintained close relations within the East African Community (EAC), particularly in trade, investment and the movement of people and goods.
“Kenya and Burundi continue to enjoy close cooperation, with our two countries working together within the wider East African Community (EAC) on trade and investment, and with the free movement of people and goods central to this relationship,”statement read.
During the meeting, Ndikuriyo expressed gratitude for the hospitality extended to Burundian citizens living and working in Kenya.
The issue of undocumented Burundian nationals in Kenya was also discussed.
Hassan assured Ndikuriyo that the Kenyan Government was committed to regularising the stay of the affected Burundian nationals. He said the necessary work permits would be issued within 90 days.
The UDA said the free movement of people and goods remains central to Kenya’s engagement with neighbouring countries and the broader integration agenda of the EAC.
The meeting was also attended by Burundi’s Ambassador to Kenya, Evelyne Habonimana, UDA Executive Director Nicodemus Bore and several UDA party directors.
The discussions come as Kenya and other EAC member states continue to pursue deeper regional integration through increased trade, investment and cooperation.
