President William Ruto departed Nairobi on Monday evening for Doha, Qatar, on a mission to strengthen Kenya’s economic partnerships, attract foreign investment, and represent the country at the United Nations Second World Summit for Social Development (WSSD2).
According to a statement from State House Spokesperson Hussein Mohamed, President Ruto’s visit will focus on advancing Kenya’s trade, investment, and development ties with Qatar while pursuing new opportunities in infrastructure, energy, agriculture, and technology.
While in Doha, President Ruto is expected to hold bilateral talks with His Highness Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani, the Emir of Qatar.
The discussions will centre on expanding cooperation in key sectors such as renewable energy, transport, logistics, health, and tourism.
The visit also aims to conclude major investment agreements designed to modernise Kenya’s infrastructure and advance flagship energy and transport projects, part of the administration’s broader strategy to position Kenya as a regional hub for trade and sustainable development.
“Building on these engagements, the President will advance expanded Qatari investment and strategic partnerships in agriculture, particularly food security and climate-smart farming, as well as in renewable energy, green hydrogen, health, tourism, transport, and logistics,” the statement read.
President Ruto will also meet with Qatari business leaders to promote public-private partnerships and encourage increased foreign direct investment in Kenya.
The government hopes these engagements will unlock new funding and technical support for major national development projects.
In addition to investment discussions, the President is expected to pursue the expansion of the Kenya-Qatar Bilateral Labour Agreement to include more professional and technical opportunities for Kenyan workers.
The move is intended to boost youth employment and align Kenya’s labour export strategy with Qatar’s workforce needs.
“This will create new pathways for young Kenyans and support those already working in Qatar as they continue contributing to both economies,” the statement added.
At the UN World Summit for Social Development, President Ruto will deliver statements on behalf of Kenya and the Africa Group, advocating for global reforms that promote equity, inclusion, and shared prosperity.
He is expected to call for fairer international financial systems, universal access to essential services, and enhanced African representation in global decision-making institutions.
The summit, which brings together world leaders, policy experts, and development partners, will focus on strategies to reduce poverty, promote decent work, and advance social inclusion globally.
President Ruto’s participation underscores Kenya’s active role in global diplomacy and its ongoing push for equitable international cooperation to support Africa’s economic transformation.
