ADDIS ABABA, Ethiopia, Dec 23, 2025-President William Ruto on Monday held high-level talks with Ethiopian Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed Ali in Addis Ababa, culminating in a landmark agreement to support joint investment initiatives between Safaricom and Ethio Telecom across the Horn of Africa.
The two leaders reaffirmed their commitment to regional peace, security, and economic integration, stressing the importance of African-led solutions in driving stability and shared prosperity.
In a statement shared on social media, President Ruto underscored the role of digital growth and cross-border collaboration in transforming regional economies.
“Together, we are committed to enhancing economic ties, promoting regional stability, and supporting initiatives that benefit our people,” Ruto said.
Both governments pledged full backing for Safaricom and Ethio Telecom as they explore strategic partnerships and investments in regional markets, a move expected to boost connectivity, digital innovation, and trade across East Africa and the wider Horn.
Beyond economic cooperation, the talks also focused on security challenges, counterterrorism efforts, and peacekeeping cooperation, reflecting a shared resolve to address instability in the region.
A senior government official described the agreement as a major milestone in Kenya–Ethiopia relations.
“This partnership brings together infrastructure development, digital growth, and security collaboration to support sustainable development in the Horn of Africa,” the official said.
The Addis Ababa talks highlight Nairobi and Addis Ababa’s growing role in shaping the political and economic future of the region.
