Kenya remains one of South Africa’s biggest trading partners outside SADC, with more than 60 South African companies operating in the East African nation
By Slu Molamodi

South Africa and Kenya have reaffirmed their commitment to strengthening economic cooperation, advancing regional integration and promoting a stronger African voice on the global stage.
The commitment was highlighted during Kenyan President William Ruto’s State Visit to Pretoria on Thursday, 4 June 2026, where he held bilateral discussions with President Cyril Ramaphosa.
Ramaphosa said the two nations have a responsibility to help drive the continent’s development agenda and create opportunities for their citizens.
It was also during the visit that Ruto praised the longstanding relationship between South Africa and Kenya, describing it as a strong partnership that has endured for more than three decades.
🇿🇦His Excellency President @CyrilRamaphosa hosts the South Africa-Kenya Business Forum at Gallagher Estate in Midrand alongside 🇰🇪His Excellency President William Samoei Ruto as part of the State Visit to South Africa.
— The Presidency 🇿🇦 (@PresidencyZA) June 4, 2026
The Forum brings together government leaders, business… pic.twitter.com/TOh6QX3Qty
Kenya remains one of South Africa’s largest trading partners outside the Southern African Development Community (SADC), with trade and investment links continuing to grow.
More than 60 South African companies currently operate in Kenya, with investments spanning several sectors of the economy.
“Ours is a relationship rooted in shared values, mutual respect, and a common vision for democracy and peace on our continent,” Ramaphosa said in his welcoming remarks.
The leaders also discussed ways to deepen economic cooperation, boost intra-African trade and strengthen collaboration on regional and continental priorities.
Ruto’s visit comes at a time when immigration-related debates and demonstrations have attracted attention across parts of South Africa and the broader African continent.
Several African governments have recently issued advisories urging their citizens residing in South Africa to remain vigilant and informed amid heightened public discussions around migration and border management.
Listen to the podcast for more insights into President Ruto’s State Visit and the discussions between the two leaders.
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