Kenya is getting ready to host the 24th Common Market for Eastern and Southern Africa (COMESA) Summit. The event will be held on October 9, 2025, in Nairobi and will bring together Heads of State and Government from the 21 member countries of the COMESA bloc.
The preparations began with the launch of the Multi-Agency National Organizing Committee (MANOC) in Naivasha, Nakuru County, by Trade Principal Secretary Regina Ombam. Kenya is now working to ensure the summit is a success both regionally and globally.
What is COMESA and Why It Matters
COMESA is a regional group made up of 21 countries. It was set up in 1994 to promote trade and cooperation in Eastern and Southern Africa. Member states include Kenya, Egypt, Uganda, Zambia, Rwanda, Burundi, and others.
The COMESA region covers over 560 million people and has a combined GDP of more than $800 billion, making it a key player in Africa’s economic development.
Key Events Before the Main Summit
Before the main summit on October 9, two important meetings will take place:
- COMESA Business Forum on October 7, 2025
- Council of Ministers for Foreign Affairs Meeting on October 8, 2025
These events will give space for business leaders and policymakers to discuss trade, regional growth, and how to strengthen partnerships.
Kenya’s Goals at the Summit
According to PS Regina Ombam, the summit is a big chance for Kenya. It comes at a time when the world is facing changes in global trade, especially with growing tariff disputes between the United States and China.
“This summit offers Kenya a chance to lead regional talks and take part in global trade discussions,” Ombam said.
One of Kenya’s top goals is to push for the removal of Non-Tariff Barriers (NTBs). These are hidden trade rules that make it hard to do business between African countries. Removing NTBs will boost intra-African trade and create jobs.
Kenya to Take Over as COMESA Chair
As the host country, Kenya will take over the rotating chairmanship of COMESA from Burundi. This role will let Kenya guide key discussions on trade, economic development, and policy within the region.
This leadership position is expected to give Kenya more say in how COMESA shapes future trade rules and economic plans.
Past Experience Hosting the Summit
Kenya has hosted the COMESA Summit before—in 1999 and again in 2007. These past events helped grow Kenya’s status in the region. With this year’s summit expected to attract more than 3,000 delegates, Kenya is preparing to make it one of the most impactful gatherings to date.
Topics Likely to Dominate the Agenda
Several key issues are expected to be discussed during the summit:
- Progress on COMESA’s integration goals
- Boosting cross-border trade
- Removing non-tariff barriers
- Energy and infrastructure development
- Green and digital economy partnerships
With global supply chains still recovering from past disruptions, the summit will also explore ways to strengthen local production and reduce dependency on imports.
A Chance for Stronger Partnerships
The COMESA Business Forum will allow investors, companies, and government officials to connect and form partnerships. With many African countries now focused on green energy, digital trade, and agriculture, this is a key chance to secure investments and sign new trade deals.
Kenya is already a hub for digital innovation and fintech in Africa. The summit will allow the country to promote its digital economy and attract more foreign direct investment.
Strong Support from Other African Initiatives
The summit will also align with the goals of the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA). By joining forces with AfCFTA, COMESA can expand its reach and support larger trade and investment networks across Africa.
Experts say stronger cooperation between COMESA, the East African Community (EAC), and Southern African Development Community (SADC) can reduce overlapping policies and lead to better results for African economies.
