President William Ruto has joined leaders around the world in mourning the death of Qatar’s former Amir, Sheikh Hamad bin Khalifa Al Thani, describing him as a visionary leader who transformed the Gulf nation.
In a statement shared on his X account, Ruto sent his condolences to Qatar’s Amir Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani, the Al Thani family and the people of Qatar following the death of the former ruler.
“On my own behalf, and on behalf of the Government and people of the Republic of Kenya, I convey my deepest sympathies to Your Highness, the Al Thani family, and the Government and people of the State of Qatar,” Ruto said.
The President praised Sheikh Hamad for overseeing Qatar’s rapid growth and laying the foundation for what has become one of the world’s leading economies.
“I join the people of Qatar in mourning the passing of a visionary leader who guided his nation through a remarkable period of progress and prosperity, laying the foundations of modern Qatar,” he added.
Ruto also prayed for strength for Qatar’s current Amir, Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani, and the entire nation as they mourn the loss.
The message comes at a time when Kenya and Qatar continue to deepen their diplomatic and economic ties. In recent years, the two countries have expanded cooperation in labour, trade, investment and aviation, with thousands of Kenyans working in the Gulf state.
Sheikh Hamad ruled Qatar from 1995 until 2013, when he voluntarily handed over power to his son, Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani. During his reign, Qatar emerged as a global player in energy, diplomacy and international sports, culminating in preparations that later saw the country host the 2022 FIFA World Cup.
Ruto’s tribute places Kenya among the countries paying homage to a leader widely credited with reshaping Qatar into a modern and influential nation.
