Ruto Flies Out to Russia [Details]

President William Ruto has travelled to Moscow, Russia, to participate in the Third Russia-Africa Economic and Humanitarian Forum.

In a statement on Tuesday, October 27, State House Spokesperson Hussein Mohamed announced the trip, saying the President would focus on expanding export markets and attracting foreign investment to support Kenya's economic growth.

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"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.

During the forum, Ruto is expected to push for greater access to African markets for Kenyan agricultural products, including tea, coffee, cut flowers and fresh produce, as well as value-added goods.

"As the AU champion on the African Continental Free Trade Area, the President will seek greater market access for African tea, coffee, cut flowers, fresh produce and value-added products, while pursuing investment in agro-processing, manufacturing, energy and infrastructure," the statement added.

Ruto will also explore partnerships in emerging technologies, including artificial intelligence, digital innovation and technology transfer, with the aim of equipping young people with relevant skills, supporting businesses and strengthening Kenya's digital economy.

"The engagements will further focus on securing affordable agricultural inputs and strengthening food security," the statement further read.

At the Africa-Russia Business Roundtable, Ruto is expected to market Kenya as a competitive investment destination and a gateway to African markets, while promoting joint ventures and commercial partnerships.

The engagements are also expected to focus on strengthening local industries, creating employment opportunities and increasing the value of Kenyan exports.

On matters of international relations and security, African leaders are expected to engage Russia on global peace, regional security challenges and efforts to resolve conflicts peacefully.

"Africa will further engage Russia on efforts to address global peace, regional security challenges, promote peaceful resolution of conflicts and strengthen regional stability," the statement noted.

The forum will also provide a platform for African countries to advance their priorities on global governance, international representation and economic cooperation.

According to Mohamed, African countries will push for fairer partnerships based on mutual respect and sovereign equality, alongside cooperation aimed at accelerating industrialisation, economic transformation and shared prosperity across the continent.

"On the sidelines, President Ruto will engage Heads of State and Government, international organisations, financial institutions and major corporations to mobilise investment, unlock new markets and secure partnerships that support Kenya's economic transformation," the statement explained.

This comes days after Deputy President Kithure Kindiki visited Ethiopia.

On Saturday morning, October 24, he landed at Bahir Dar Dejazmach Belay Zeleke International Airport aboard a Kenya Air Force Fokker 70 and was received by Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed.

Kindiki was in Addis Ababa to attend the 12th Tana High-Level Forum on Security in Africa.

After receiving him, Abiy said he held a brief bilateral meeting on matters of mutual interest before the annual forum began.

"I was pleased to receive Kenya’s Deputy President, Kithure Kindiki, ahead of the 12th Tana High-Level Forum on Security in Africa, where we held a brief bilateral meeting on matters of mutual interest," he wrote.