Kenya Seeks Russian Capital for KSh5.2 Trillion Development Programme

President William Ruto has invited Russian investors to participate in Kenya’s ambitious KSh5.2 trillion infrastructure development program, seeking foreign capital and technology to accelerate major national projects over the next decade.

Speaking at the Russia-Kenya Business Roundtable in Moscow on Wednesday, October 28, 2026, Ruto said the government was mobilizing approximately $40 billion to finance infrastructure expansion, presenting the plan as an opportunity for Russian companies to invest in Kenya’s growing economy.

The president identified transport, energy, water infrastructure, manufacturing, and agriculture as key sectors requiring investment. He said Russian expertise in engineering, mining, fertilizer production, and industrial development could support Kenya’s economic transformation agenda.

Ruto also encouraged Russian businesses to establish production facilities in Kenya rather than concentrate solely on exporting finished products. He argued that local manufacturing, technology transfer, and skills development would create employment opportunities while strengthening the country’s industrial capacity.

The President cited Kenya’s strategic position in East Africa, its expanding economy, and access to the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA), which provides businesses with an opportunity to reach a wider continental market.

He further highlighted the need to strengthen bilateral trade, which stood at approximately $380 million in 2025. Kenya exported goods worth $52 million to Russia, mainly tea, coffee, flowers, fruits, and vegetables, while imports from Russia reached approximately $330 million. Russian investment in Kenya was estimated at $22 million, a figure Ruto said could increase through stronger economic cooperation and industrial partnerships.

The infrastructure program is expected to cover major investments in roads, energy generation, water storage, irrigation, and other development priorities.

Ruto urged investors to measure the success of their partnerships through completed projects, industries established, and employment opportunities created rather than agreements signed alone.

He maintained that Kenya was open to international partnerships that would promote investment, industrialization, and shared economic growth. The President’s appeal forms part of his broader efforts to attract international investors and position Kenya as a regional manufacturing and commercial hub

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