Kenya National Assembly has committed to supporting Somalia in strengthening its legislative systems through a structured capacity-building initiative aimed at training Somali parliamentary staff.
The announcement was made on Thursday, 12th June 2025, by the Speaker of the National Assembly, Moses Wetang’ula, during a meeting at Parliament Buildings with the Ambassador of the Federal Republic of Somalia, H.E. Jabril Ibrahim Abdulle.
According to a statement issued by Parliament, the initiative marks a significant step in enhancing bilateral cooperation between the two neighbouring countries.
Ambassador Jabril’s message to Kenya
The ambassador had paid a courtesy call on the Speaker to deliver a goodwill message from the Speaker of Somalia’s Lower House, Hon. Sheikh Adan Mohamed Nur (Madobe), requesting Kenya’s assistance in capacity building for Somalia’s legislative personnel.
In response to the request, Speaker Wetang’ula confirmed the country’s willingness to facilitate the training of Somali parliamentary staff using Kenyan institutions and through direct attachments to parliamentary committees.
“Kenya is ready to facilitate the training of Somali parliamentary staff through our institutions and benchmarking programs,” Wetang’ula stated.
Parliament feedback.
He added that the country would take a hands-on approach by allowing Somali staff to participate directly in the workings of various National Assembly committees.
“We will also attach Somali personnel to various committees within the Kenyan National Assembly for hands-on experience,” he added.
The initiative was said to be part of the broader efforts to deepen bilateral cooperation and promote legislative development in Somalia by exposing its staff to Kenyan governance and legislative processes.
Speaker Wetang’ula also welcomed a proposal from his Somali counterpart to establish a Kenya–Somalia Parliamentary Friendship Group.
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He described the proposed platform as crucial for fostering long-term parliamentary collaboration between the two countries.
“This Friendship Group is a critical instrument in fostering closer ties and deepening our diplomatic engagement,” he said.
Country’s support to Somalia
Additionally, the Speaker reaffirmed the country’s support for Somalia’s aspiration to join the East African Community (EAC).
He highlighted regional integration as vital for peace, stability, and economic progress.
“Somalia’s integration into the EAC will bolster collective development,” Wetang’ula noted.
He urged Somalia to continue upholding national unity, peace, and territorial integrity as key pillars for sustainable development and harmonious relations within the region.
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Wetang’ula also identified the blue economy and energy sectors as promising areas for Kenyan Somalian cooperation, pointing to shared resources and potential for mutual benefit.
“We have vast opportunities in offshore oil and gas and the blue economy,” Wetangula said.
“Tapping into these resources collaboratively will benefit our people and strengthen the East African region as a whole,” he added.
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