Kenya has officially voiced its support for Morocco’s autonomy proposal for Western Sahara, aligning itself with a growing list of African, Arab, and Western nations backing Rabat in the decades-long dispute.
In a joint statement following high-level talks in Rabat, Kenya declared the Moroccan autonomy initiative as the only viable, credible, and sustainable solution to the Western Sahara conflict. The territorial dispute, which began in 1975, involves Morocco and the Algeria-backed Polisario Front, which demands independence for the region.
Marking 60 years of diplomatic relations, Kenya also inaugurated its new embassy in Rabat on Monday, signaling a deepening of bilateral cooperation.
Economic collaboration was a key feature of the discussions. Morocco, a major global producer of phosphates and fertilizers, agreed to expedite soil nutrient exports to Kenya. The two nations will also enhance cooperation in renewable energy, tourism, fisheries, security, and cultural and religious exchanges.
Moroccan Foreign Minister Nasser Bourita hailed Kenya’s support for what he called Morocco’s “national cause” and said the move would give fresh momentum to bilateral relations.
Kenyan Foreign Minister Musalia Mudavadi, writing on his X account, said Kenya aims to expand exports of tea, coffee, and fresh produce to Morocco in an effort to balance trade between the two countries.
Additionally, Kenya expressed support for a Moroccan initiative offering landlocked Sahel nations access to international markets through Morocco’s Atlantic ports.
