Ruto Makes Fresh Appeal to Putin as Kenya Seeks Russian Investment in Factories

President William Ruto has urged Russian President Vladimir Putin to help African countries establish manufacturing industries, transfer technology and create employment opportunities as the continent seeks to reduce its dependence on imported finished products.

Speaking during the Russia-Africa Summit in Moscow on Thursday, October 29, Ruto said African countries needed partnerships that would enable them to process their natural resources locally and compete more effectively in international markets.

The Head of State argued that Africa had for years supplied raw materials to foreign markets while importing finished goods manufactured from its own resources.

“Africa cannot continue to be a supplier of raw materials and a consumer of finished products,” Ruto said, calling for increased investment in manufacturing and innovation.

He urged Russia to partner with African governments and businesses in establishing factories, developing technical skills and strengthening local production capacity.

Ruto maintained that such investments would benefit both Africa and its international partners by opening new markets and creating employment opportunities.

The President’s remarks come as Kenya intensifies efforts to attract Russian investors into its manufacturing, technology and agricultural sectors.

During his engagements in Moscow, Ruto also identified agriculture as a key area for cooperation, highlighting opportunities in affordable fertilisers, irrigation technology, mechanisation and food processing.

He said African countries should focus on producing agricultural inputs locally rather than relying heavily on imports.

According to the President, strengthening domestic production would help improve food security while creating opportunities for farmers, manufacturers and other businesses.

Energy infrastructure, engineering and mineral processing were also identified as priority sectors for investment.

Ruto said Kenya was pursuing renewable energy development, geothermal power and green manufacturing while investing in infrastructure designed to withstand the effects of climate change.

He argued that African countries should not be forced to choose between environmental protection and economic development.

The summit provides an opportunity for African leaders and Russian officials to explore ways of expanding trade, investment and technological cooperation.

Ruto’s appeal reflects Kenya’s broader push to attract investments that establish industries and generate jobs rather than partnerships centred mainly on the exchange of goods.

The President wants stronger cooperation with Russia to help African countries increase local production, develop technical expertise and capture greater economic value from their natural resources.

https://peopledaily.digital/news/ruto-urges-putin-to-help-africa-build-factories-and-create-jobs

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