William Ruto Visits Moscow for Russia-Africa Economic Forum

President William Ruto departed for Moscow on October 27, 2026, to represent Kenya at the Third Russia–Africa Economic and Humanitarian Forum. Ruto intends to expand export markets for Kenyan coffee, tea, fresh produce, and cut flowers, while seeking Russian investments in manufacturing, energy, agro-processing, and infrastructure.

As the African Union champion for the African Continental Free Trade Area, Ruto is pursuing partnerships in digital innovation and artificial intelligence to strengthen the Kenyan digital economy. His itinerary includes meetings with Russian officials, including Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov, and other heads of state to discuss regional security, peaceful conflict resolution, and reforms to global governance.

The visit occurs as Kenyan families demand the repatriation of citizens killed during Russia's war against Ukraine. These families are also seeking clarity on the status of other Kenyans who were reportedly recruited into the conflict under false pretenses of employment.