On his way back from Accra, Ghana, where he attended former President John Mahama’s inauguration, Ruto made a brief stop in Luanda for talks on regional peace, bilateral relations, and cooperation within the AU.

During the discussions Kenya and Angola agreed to collaborate on restarting Kenya Airways’ direct flights to Luanda by March.

Angola also committed to work towards waiving visa requirements for Kenyan travelers, reciprocating Kenya’s earlier decision to lift visa restrictions for Angolans.

“This move will enable our professionals like teachers to access Angola much more easily,” Ruto said during the meeting.

The two leaders also addressed key continental issues, including institutional reforms at the AU, peace in the Great Lakes region, and next month’s election of the AUC chairperson.

On the ongoing Luanda Process for peace in eastern DR Congo, both leaders acknowledged the importance of a joint meeting between the Southern African Development Community (SADC) and the East African Community (EAC) to consolidate peace efforts.

“Peace and security in our continent is of paramount importance to us all, and we are keen to have a process that incorporates all and ensures its success,” Ruto stated.