President William Ruto has departed for Russia to seek new markets for Kenyan goods, attract foreign investment and strengthen economic and diplomatic relations between Kenya, Russia and other African nations.
In a statement issued on Tuesday, October 27, State House Spokesperson Hussein Mohamed said Ruto would participate in the Third Russia–Africa Economic and Humanitarian Forum in Moscow, where he is expected to promote Kenya’s trade and strategic interests.
The Head of State will use the meeting to pursue opportunities to expand Kenya’s exports, attract foreign capital and establish partnerships in key sectors of the economy.
"President William Ruto departs for Moscow, Russia, this evening to participate in the Third Russia–Africa Economic and Humanitarian Forum, where he will advance Kenya’s economic and strategic interests, focusing on expanding export markets and attracting investments," the statement read in part.
As the African Union champion for the African Continental Free Trade Area, Ruto is expected to push for improved access to international markets for African products, including tea, coffee, cut flowers, fresh produce and value-added goods.
He will also seek investment opportunities in energy, infrastructure, manufacturing and agro-processing, sectors considered important to Kenya’s economic growth.
The president is further expected to explore partnerships in artificial intelligence, digital innovation and technology transfer to equip young people with emerging skills, support businesses and accelerate the growth of Kenya’s digital economy.
Agriculture and food security will also feature prominently in his engagements, with Kenya seeking affordable agricultural inputs to support farmers and improve food production.
Russia has maintained diplomatic and agricultural ties with Kenya, including through the supply of farm inputs such as fertilisers.
"The engagements will further focus on securing affordable agricultural inputs and strengthening food security," the statement added.
Beyond the main forum, Ruto is scheduled to attend the Africa–Russia Business Roundtable, where he will market Kenya as an attractive destination for international investors and a strategic entry point into African markets.
The meetings will also address broader African priorities, including reforms to global governance systems, improved representation in international decision-making and the establishment of fair partnerships between African countries and their international counterparts.
Kenya has consistently called for greater African representation in global institutions, particularly the United Nations Security Council and international financial bodies.
Ruto has previously supported demands for Africa to receive at least two permanent seats on the UN Security Council, alongside reforms to international financial institutions and a fairer distribution of financial responsibilities.
"The Forum will focus on Africa’s priorities, including reforms to global governance, stronger representation in international decision-making and equitable partnerships founded on mutual respect and sovereign equality. The African group will also advocate cooperation that advances Africa’s industrialisation, economic transformation and shared prosperity," Hussein said.
Prime Cabinet Secretary Musalia Mudavadi, who is already in Moscow, is expected to receive the president and participate in engagements aimed at strengthening Kenya’s relations with Russia.
Mudavadi is also scheduled to hold discussions with Russian leaders, including Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov, as both countries explore opportunities to deepen economic cooperation and political ties.
