President William Ruto has jetted out to Russia this evening to seek new markets for Kenyan products, attract foreign investment and strengthen Kenya’s economic ties with Russia and other African countries.
According to a press release issued by State House Spokesperson Hussein Mohamed on Tuesday, October 27, Ruto will attend the Russia-Africa Forum in Moscow to deepen diplomatic and trade relations between Russia and Africa.
During the forum, the Head of State is expected to advance Kenya’s economic and strategic interests, with a particular focus on expanding export markets and attracting investment.
"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.
President William Ruto boarding a plane. PHOTO/ Courtesy.
At the forum, the president, in his capacity as the African Union champion for the Free Trade Area, will seek greater market access for African tea, coffee, cut flowers, fresh produce, and value-added products.
At the same time, he will also pursue investments in the energy, infrastructure, manufacturing, and agro-processing sectors.
Ruto will further explore partnerships in artificial intelligence, digital innovation and technology transfer to equip young people with emerging skills, support businesses and strengthen Kenya’s digital economy.
He will also seek to secure affordable agricultural inputs as well as strengthen food security. Kenya and Russia are known to have strong diplomatic ties, with Russia reportedly supporting Kenya with agricultural products like fertilizers.
"The engagements will further focus on securing affordable agricultural inputs and strengthening food security," the statement added.
At the same time, Ruto will also attend the Africa–Russia Business Roundtable, where he will position the country as a competitive destination for global investments and a major gateway to African markets.
The Forum will further 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.
On Africa's representation, Ruto has for years championed calls for the continent to be granted at least two permanent seats on the United Nations Security Council, alongside equitable representation in global financial institutions and a fairer share of financial obligations.
"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.
The president will be received by Prime Minister Musalia Mudavadi, who is already in Moscow and is expected to hold a series of engagements with Russian leaders, including Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov, to strengthen economic and political ties.
President William Ruto during the groundbreaking of a Ksh70 billion clinker plant in Kitui on October 27, 2026.
PCS