President William Ruto concluded a three-day State Visit to South Africa aimed at deepening
economic cooperation, trade, and diplomatic relations between Kenya and South Africa.
President Ruto was hosted by South African President Cyril Ramaphosa at the Union Buildings in
Pretoria, where the two leaders held high-level talks on regional security, trade, investment,
migration, and continental integration. The visit comes as both countries seek to elevate their
bilateral relationship into a Strategic Partnership.
During the visit, the two heads of state emphasized the need to strengthen economic ties
between two of Africa’s largest economies. Discussions focused on increasing trade, attracting
investment, and creating opportunities for businesses in key sectors such as agriculture,
tourism, transport, and technology. A Kenya–South Africa Business Forum was also held to
explore new avenues for commercial partnerships.
The leaders also addressed regional and continental challenges, including migration and peace
and security issues affecting Africa. President Ramaphosa announced plans to dispatch envoys
across Africa and other parts of the world to engage stakeholders on migration concerns
following recent xenophobic incidents in South Africa. He reaffirmed his government's
commitment to fostering peaceful coexistence among African nations.
Speaking at the conclusion of the visit, President Ramaphosa described Kenya as one of South
Africa’s most important strategic partners in East Africa, highlighting the longstanding friendship
and cooperation between the two nations.
The State Visit is expected to further strengthen diplomatic and economic relations between
Nairobi and Pretoria, paving the way for increased trade, investment, and collaboration on key
African development priorities.