President William Ruto will depart the country on Monday night, April 21, for a five-day state visit to China.
In a statement, State House confirmed that the visit is a continuation of the Comprehensive Strategic Partnership established between Kenya and China in 2017.
"The visit builds on the Comprehensive Strategic Partnership established in 2017, with Kenya recognised as China’s leading Belt and Road Initiative (BRI) partner in Africa.
"Kenya has played a central role in advancing regional infrastructure and connectivity, with flagship projects such as the Standard Gauge Railway and the Nairobi Expressway significantly transforming its economic landscape," the statement read.
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According to State House, during his time in Beijing, Ruto will engage in bilateral discussions with Chinese President Xi Jinping.
He will also officiate the Kenya-China Business Forum, a platform expected to bring together over 100 companies from both countries to discuss potential investment opportunities.
"While in Beijing, the President will hold bilateral talks with President Xi Jinping to advance shared priorities in economic transformation, sustainable development, and global cooperation.
"He will also officiate the Kenya-China Business Forum, bringing together over 100 companies from both countries to explore new opportunities in trade, investment, digital innovation, and industrial growth," the statement continued.
Additionally, Ruto is expected to open the Kenya Tea Holding Centre in Fujian Province, a move seen as a way to empower smallholder farmers and expand Kenya’s market presence in Asia.
"As part of efforts to boost Kenya’s agricultural exports, he will inaugurate the Kenya Tea Holding Centre in Fujian Province. Situated in one of China’s key tea regions, the Centre will enhance the visibility and market access of Kenyan tea, support smallholder farmers, and strengthen Kenya’s trade footprint in Asia," the statement further read.
Ruto will also issue a keynote address at Peking University, where he will outline Africa’s aspirations in global development conversations.
"The Head of State will also deliver a keynote address at Peking University, where he will highlight Africa’s vision for inclusive growth, leadership, and deeper South-South cooperation," the statement said.
In addition to bilateral and economic engagements, Ruto will hold discussions with Chinese leadership on a broader range of global and regional issues.
“The President will further engage with the Chinese leadership on global and regional matters, advocating for enhanced multilateral cooperation. Discussions will also address peace and security in the Greater Horn of Africa and the Great Lakes Region," the statement concluded.
