The Lower Eastern Times Opening The Third Eye
Related Articles
Business executives from Kenya and South Africa have renewed calls for stronger economic cooperation, increased intra-African trade, and faster implementation of regional integration initiatives across the continent.
The appeal was made during the Kenya-South Africa Business Forum held in Johannesburg on Thursday, coinciding with President William Ruto’s state visit to South Africa.
Click here to join our WhatsApp Channel
Speaking at the forum, Sim Tshabalala, Chief Executive Officer of Standard Bank Group, said Kenya and South Africa are strategically positioned within two of Africa’s most influential economic regions and can play a pivotal role in driving continental growth.
He noted that Kenya serves as a key gateway to East Africa through the East African Community, while South Africa remains a major economic hub in Southern Africa.
According to Tshabalala, the two countries have a unique opportunity to strengthen economic ties through their shared links within the Common Market for Eastern and Southern Africa, creating a stronger trade corridor connecting East and Southern Africa.
He emphasized that Africa still has substantial untapped potential to increase trade within the continent and unlock broader economic opportunities.
To accelerate integration, Tshabalala proposed the adoption of a unified customs processing system across Africa and visa-free travel arrangements for business leaders, arguing that such measures would make it easier to conduct business and boost cross-border trade.
Also speaking at the forum, Jaswinder Bedi, Chairman of the Kenya Private Sector Alliance, urged governments to move beyond policy discussions and implement practical measures that deliver real economic benefits.
Bedi said businesses across the continent are united in their desire to see regional integration efforts accelerated, stressing that deeper cooperation can no longer remain a long-term aspiration.
He further called on Kenya and South Africa to operationalize existing agreements and create a more business-friendly environment by implementing policies that ease trade and investment.
The forum came shortly after President Ruto held bilateral talks with Cyril Ramaphosa in Pretoria, where both leaders reaffirmed their commitment to enhancing trade, investment, and regional integration while supporting the implementation of the African Continental Free Trade Area.
