Ruto Seeks Russian Investment in Kenyan Factories as Imports Hit KSh42.9 Billion

President William Ruto has called on Russian companies to establish factories in Kenya, seeking to reduce the country’s dependence on imported products and expand employment opportunities through local manufacturing.

Speaking during the Russia-Kenya Business Roundtable in Moscow on Wednesday, October 28, 2026, Ruto said the two countries needed to build an economic partnership that delivers greater value through industrial development, technology transfer and investment.

The President made the appeal after revealing that bilateral trade reached approximately KSh49.4 billion in 2025, with imports from Russia accounting for the largest share of the exchange.

Kenya exported goods worth approximately KSh6.76 billion to Russia, mainly tea, coffee, flowers, fruits and vegetables. In contrast, imports from the country stood at about KSh42.9 billion, comprising wheat, fertilisers, iron and steel products.

Russian investments in Kenya were estimated at KSh2.86 billion, a figure Ruto wants expanded through partnerships involving manufacturing and industrial production.

He argued that exporting raw materials while importing finished products limits opportunities for African countries to develop industries, create jobs and retain more economic value locally.

Ruto identified energy, mining, fertiliser production, engineering, transport and manufacturing as priority sectors for Russian investors.

He also encouraged companies from Moscow to establish joint ventures with Kenyan businesses in agricultural processing and mineral beneficiation, which involves processing raw minerals to increase their value.

The Head of State presented Kenya as a potential manufacturing base for companies seeking to expand into other African markets.

He cited the country’s population of 55 million, a gross domestic product of $136 billion and economic growth of 5.3 per cent in 2025 as factors that could attract investors.

Ruto also highlighted opportunities in infrastructure development, urging Russian companies to bring their capital and technical expertise into projects that support Kenya’s industrialisation agenda.

He said the government wanted investment agreements to translate into tangible economic outcomes, including completed projects, new industries and employment opportunities.

Earlier, the President held discussions with Wildberries Chief Executive Officer Robert Mirzoyan on possible investments in e-commerce and digital trade.

The engagements took place during Ruto’s visit to Moscow for the Third Russia-Africa Economic and Humanitarian Forum.

Kenya is seeking to strengthen its economic ties with Russia while attracting investments that can boost domestic production, support technology transfer and expand the country’s participation in international trade.

https://peopledaily.digital/business/ruto-woos-russian-investors-as-kenya-russia-trade-hits-ksh49-4-billion

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