South Africa and Kenya Sign Trade Pacts Amid Migration Crisis

President Cyril Ramaphosa hosted Kenyan President William Ruto for a state visit in Pretoria from June 4 to 6, 2026, resulting in the signing of six Memoranda of Understanding. These agreements cover trade facilitation, maritime cooperation, gender equality, vocational training, arts, and sports, bringing the total bilateral pacts between the two nations to 34. The leaders focused on utilizing the African Continental Free Trade Area to reduce non-tariff barriers and build regional value chains in automotive manufacturing, pharmaceuticals, and green energy.

At a Business Forum in Johannesburg, Ramaphosa noted that South African firms have invested over $2 billion in 96 Kenyan projects, while Kenyan investments in South Africa total $283 million. Business leaders urged the governments to implement a continent-wide customs system and visa-free travel for executives to accelerate commercial integration.

The visit occurred during a period of intensifying protests against illegal immigration in South Africa, which recently saw two Mozambicans killed in Mossel Bay. Ramaphosa rejected claims that the unrest reflects systemic xenophobia, attributing it to migration challenges. However, he announced that South Africa will dispatch diplomatic envoys globally and across Africa to coordinate international migration management. President Ruto attributed the migration pressures to uneven economic development across the continent, suggesting that South Africa's stronger economy naturally attracts those seeking opportunity.