Details Of President Ruto's 2-Day Visit To Germany

President William Ruto will on Thursday, September 12 evening jet out of the country for a two-day official visit to Germany.

State House Spokesperson Hussein Mohamed in a statement sent to the newsrooms said the visit marks a significant milestone in the long-standing relations between Kenya and Germany spanning over 60 years and is aimed at strengthening cultural, economic, and diplomatic ties.

During the visit, President Ruto will attend the Annual Citizens’ Festival (Bürgerfest) themed pamoja – stronger together.

“Kenya has been honoured as the profile partner country, making it the first time a non-European country has been selected to partner with Germany for the festival. This partnership offers a unique platform to showcase Kenya’s rich cultural heritage to the German public.

“Cultural exchange has been the cornerstone of our connection, with institutions like the Goethe-Institut in Nairobi playing a crucial role in promoting German culture in Kenya since 1963,” read part of the statement.

The Head of State will also witness the signing of the Kenya-Germany agreement on comprehensive migration and mobility partnership.

According to Hussein, the agreement establishes a framework for cooperation on labour mobility, apprenticeships, student training, employment, and the welfare of employees, as well as for the readmission and return of citizens.

It will also enhance the existing legal framework and mechanisms for preventing and combatting irregular migration and smuggling of persons. 

President Ruto will then hold bilateral discussions with German President Frank-Walter Steinmeier and German Chancellor Olaf Scholz.

“These meetings will focus on deepening cooperation on areas of mutual interest including green energy and climate action; digital cooperation; trade and investment; skills development and labour; and regional and international peace and security,” the State House Spokesperson stated.

Further, Ruto will engage with leading German business figures during a special forum aimed at enhancing trade and investment opportunities between Kenya and Germany.

The forum will be attended by CEOs of major companies such as Mercedes Benz, YouTube, and AIDA Cruises.

Expected benefits for Kenya from President Ruto’s visit include employment opportunities for youth, enhanced educational and vocational opportunities, increased cultural visibility and strengthened economic ties.

“This visit not only reaffirms the strong ties between Kenya and Germany but also opens new avenues for cooperation that will benefit the people of both nations,” Hussein added. 

The visit comes days after President Ruto returned to the country after an official visit to China.