Ruto Flies to Russia to Seek New Markets, Foreign Investment and Affordable Farm Inputs for Kenya

President William Ruto has travelled to Russia to attend an economic forum aimed at strengthening trade relations, attracting foreign investment and opening new markets for Kenyan products. The three-day engagement is expected to focus on economic cooperation between Kenya, Russia and other African countries.

According to a statement issued by State House Spokesperson Hussein Mohamed on Tuesday, October 27, 2026, Ruto departed for Moscow to participate in the Third Russia–Africa Economic and Humanitarian Forum. The meeting will bring together leaders and business representatives to discuss economic partnerships.

During the forum, the president is expected to promote Kenya’s economic interests by seeking wider access to international markets for locally produced goods. The government is also targeting foreign investors who can support industrial growth, create employment opportunities and strengthen the country’s productive sectors.

As the African Union champion for the African Continental Free Trade Area, Ruto is expected to advocate for better market access for tea, coffee, cut flowers, fresh produce and value-added products. Expanding exports could create additional opportunities for Kenyan farmers, manufacturers and businesses seeking customers beyond traditional markets.

The president will also pursue investment opportunities in energy, infrastructure, manufacturing and agro-processing. These sectors remain important to Kenya’s economic development agenda, particularly efforts to increase local production, improve infrastructure and encourage businesses to process raw materials into finished goods.

Technology is another area expected to feature prominently during the discussions. According to State House, Kenya will explore partnerships in artificial intelligence, digital innovation and technology transfer. Such cooperation could help young people acquire emerging skills while supporting businesses and strengthening the country’s growing digital economy.

Agriculture and food security will also form part of the agenda. Ruto is expected to seek affordable agricultural inputs, including fertilisers, to support farmers and strengthen food production. The government views access to reasonably priced farm inputs as an important factor in improving agricultural productivity and reducing pressure on food supplies.

The president will additionally attend the Africa–Russia Business Roundtable, where Kenya will present itself as an attractive investment destination and a gateway to wider African markets. The engagement is expected to create opportunities for discussions between Kenyan representatives, Russian businesses and other international investors.

Beyond trade and investment, the forum will address Africa’s position in global decision-making institutions. African leaders are expected to push for reforms that give the continent stronger representation in international bodies and promote partnerships based on mutual respect and sovereign equality.

Ruto has previously advocated for Africa to receive at least two permanent seats on the United Nations Security Council. He has also supported calls for fairer representation in international financial institutions, arguing that African countries should have a greater voice in decisions affecting global economic affairs.

Prime Cabinet Secretary Musalia Mudavadi, who is already in Moscow, is expected to receive the president and participate in engagements with Russian officials. His scheduled meetings include discussions with Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov, focusing on strengthening political and economic cooperation between the two countries.

The visit comes as Kenya continues to pursue international partnerships to expand exports, attract capital and strengthen food security. However, the practical benefits will depend on the agreements reached, investments secured and whether the engagements translate into tangible opportunities for Kenyan farmers, businesses and workers.

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