President William Ruto has congratulated Sanae Takaichi on her election as the 104th Prime Minister of Japan, reaffirming Kenya’s commitment to strengthening the strategic partnership between the two countries.
In his message on Tuesday, Ruto described Takaichi’s victory as a testament to the confidence of the Japanese people in her leadership, vision, and dedication to their progress and prosperity.
“As you assume this worthy responsibility, I wish to reaffirm Kenya’s enduring commitment to the strategic partnership between our two nations,” he said.
The President noted that Kenya deeply values Japan’s generous development cooperation across key national priority sectors.
He highlighted the shared determination of both nations to strengthen collaboration—bilaterally and multilaterally—in promoting peace, stability, and sustainable development.
Ruto also expressed Kenya’s desire to deepen cooperation with Japan in tackling global challenges and reinforcing international systems to advance shared interests and inclusive growth.
Reflecting on his participation in the Ninth Tokyo International Conference on African Development (TICAD 9), President Ruto said the forum reaffirmed both nations’ resolve to elevate Kenya–Japan relations to greater heights.
He described TICAD 9 as an opportunity to build on the outcomes of his earlier visit to Japan in February 2024, which focused on private sector–led initiatives for mutual benefit.
“I look forward to engaging with Your Excellency at the earliest mutually convenient opportunity,” Ruto added.
“It would be a singular honour for Kenya to host you, Prime Minister, as we chart a renewed and ambitious path for the future of our partnership.”
The President concluded his letter by assuring Prime Minister Takaichi of his highest consideration.
Takaichi becomes Japan’s first female prime minister, marking a historic breakthrough in a nation where political leadership has long been dominated by men.
The vote was held on Tuesday, October 21, 2025.
Takaichi, 64, assumes office at a time of significant national strain.
Japan is battling mounting economic pressure, rising living costs, and a political landscape that has grown fractured and fragile.
She steps into the role just days before a scheduled visit by US President Donald Trump, immediately placing foreign policy, diplomacy and Japan’s global standing at the top of her agenda.
A staunch conservative and long-time member of the ruling Liberal Democratic Party (LDP), Takaichi is expected to champion a hard-right policy approach.
Her priorities include strengthening Japan’s defense posture, pursuing constitutional revision, tightening immigration controls, and restoring political stability after a period of internal party turbulence.
