Trade Cabinet Secretary Lee Kinyanjui has called for increased Russian investment in Kenya’s manufacturing, mining, fertiliser production and engineering sectors as the government seeks to expand industrial capacity and create jobs.
Kinyanjui said Kenya’s engagement with international partners was aimed at attracting investments that support industries, employment and wealth creation.
The Cabinet Secretary made the remarks after joining President William Ruto at the Russia-Kenya Business Forum in Moscow, where the two countries explored opportunities to strengthen trade and investment relations.
Kinyanjui identified Russia’s expertise in energy, mining, fertiliser production, engineering, transport and manufacturing as areas that could support Kenya’s industrialisation agenda.
He said bilateral trade between Kenya and Russia was valued at approximately US$380 million in 2025, but noted that the relationship could expand beyond the exchange of goods to include investments in local production.
The Cabinet Secretary called on Russian investors to establish industries in Kenya, particularly in mineral processing and value addition, heavy engineering, transport equipment, fertiliser production and manufacturing.
According to Kinyanjui, such investments could strengthen Kenya’s industrial capacity, facilitate technology transfer and develop local supply chains.
He added that expanding investment partnerships could also create employment opportunities for Kenyans while supporting the country’s efforts to increase domestic production.
The discussions in Moscow form part of Kenya’s broader efforts to strengthen economic partnerships and attract foreign capital into productive sectors of the economy.
