President William Ruto has stepped up Kenya’s diplomatic push on the global stage, using high-level talks in Nairobi to lobby for support for Supreme Court judge Njoki Ndung’u in her bid for a seat at the International Criminal Court (ICC).
Ruto on Wednesday revealed that he had sought the backing of Prime Minister of Mauritius, Navinchandra Ramgoolam, during a meeting at State House, Nairobi, as Kenya positions itself to secure one of the influential slots at the Hague-based court.
The ICC bid formed a key part of wider bilateral talks that also focused on deepening economic and security cooperation between Kenya and Mauritius.
At the centre of the discussions was a renewed push to expand trade and investment across manufacturing and services, building on a trade promotion forum held in April 2026 that brought together businesses from both countries.
The forum is seen as part of ongoing efforts to unlock opportunities in value addition, cross-border investment and regional market access.
The two leaders also reaffirmed cooperation on maritime security in the Indian Ocean, a critical corridor for global trade that has in the past faced threats from piracy and trafficking networks.
Strengthening joint efforts in securing these waters is expected to not only safeguard trade routes but also boost investor confidence in the region.
Air connectivity has also emerged as a key pillar in the growing partnership, with direct flights linking Nairobi and Mauritius, including routes operated by Kenya Airways.
Improved connectivity is expected to support tourism, business travel and the movement of goods between the two economies.
Ruto’s latest diplomatic move signals Kenya’s broader strategy of leveraging bilateral relationships to advance its interests both economically and within international institutions.
Securing a position for Ndung’u at the ICC would mark a significant win for the country, coming at a time when Nairobi is seeking a stronger voice in global governance.
The meeting also underscores Kenya’s push to position itself as a regional hub for trade, diplomacy and security cooperation, with partnerships such as the one with Mauritius seen as key to advancing that agenda.