President William Ruto left for Moscow, Russia, to attend the Third Russia–Africa Economic and Humanitarian Forum, where he will seek to expand Kenya’s export markets, attract foreign investment and create jobs.
According to a statement from the Presidency, Ruto will use the forum to advance Kenya’s economic and strategic interests, with a focus on securing greater access to international markets for Kenyan products and attracting investment into key sectors of the economy.
As the African Union champion on the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA), the President will push for increased market access for Kenyan tea, coffee, cut flowers, fresh produce and value-added products.
He will also pursue investment opportunities in agro-processing, manufacturing, energy and infrastructure, as well as partnerships in artificial intelligence, digital innovation and technology transfer.
The proposed technology partnerships are expected to support skills development among young people, strengthen businesses and accelerate the growth of Kenya’s digital economy.
The discussions will also focus on access to affordable agricultural inputs and measures to strengthen food security.
At the Africa–Russia Business Roundtable, Ruto is expected to market Kenya as an investment destination and a gateway to African markets, encouraging joint ventures and commercial partnerships aimed at strengthening local industries, creating employment and increasing the value of Kenyan exports.
Beyond trade and investment, African leaders will engage Russia on global peace, regional security challenges and efforts to resolve conflicts through peaceful means.
The forum will also provide a platform for African countries to push for reforms in global governance, greater representation in international decision-making and partnerships based on mutual respect and sovereign equality.
African leaders are expected to advocate cooperation that supports industrialisation, economic transformation and shared prosperity across the continent.
On the sidelines of the meeting, Ruto is scheduled to hold engagements with fellow Heads of State and Government, international organisations, financial institutions and major corporations to mobilise investment, open new markets and secure partnerships aligned with Kenya’s economic transformation agenda.
The visit comes as Kenya seeks to diversify its export destinations, attract capital into productive sectors and expand commercial ties beyond traditional trading partners.
