President William Ruto has travelled to Moscow, Russia, to attend the Third Russia-Africa Economic and Humanitarian Forum, where he is expected to pursue new export markets, attract investment and create employment opportunities for Kenyans.
Ruto departed for Russia on Tuesday evening, October 27, with his visit focused on advancing Kenya’s economic and strategic interests through trade, technology and investment partnerships.
In a statement announcing the trip, State House Spokesperson Hussein Mohamed said the president would use the forum to strengthen Kenya’s access to international markets and attract investors to key sectors of the economy.
“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,” Mohamed stated.
As the African Union champion for the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA), Ruto is expected to seek greater market access for Kenyan tea, coffee, cut flowers, fresh produce and value-added products.
The government is also targeting investment in agro-processing, manufacturing, energy and infrastructure, alongside partnerships in artificial intelligence, digital innovation and technology transfer.
According to State House, the engagements will explore ways to equip young people with emerging skills, support businesses and strengthen Kenya’s digital economy. Discussions will also focus on securing affordable agricultural inputs and strengthening food security.
During the Africa-Russia Business Roundtable, Ruto is expected to market Kenya as a competitive investment destination and a gateway to African markets.
The government hopes to secure joint ventures and commercial partnerships that could strengthen local industries, create jobs and increase the value of Kenyan exports. The forum will also provide a platform for African leaders to discuss global governance reforms, Africa’s representation in international decision-making, regional security and the peaceful resolution of conflicts.
On the sidelines, Ruto is expected to engage heads of state and government, international organisations, financial institutions and major corporations to mobilise investment, unlock new markets and secure partnerships supporting Kenya’s economic transformation.
The visit also comes amid concerns over Kenyans reportedly recruited to fight for Russia in its war against Ukraine. Families of affected citizens have been seeking government intervention to establish the fate of missing relatives and secure assistance for those caught up in the conflict.
It remains unclear whether the issue will feature in Ruto’s formal discussions during the forum, with the State House statement focusing on trade, investment, technology and economic cooperation.