President William Ruto is set to make his inaugural state visit to China, marking a new chapter in Kenya’s expanding partnership with Beijing. The five-day trip, beginning on April 22, 2025, aims to enhance Kenya’s economic standing through discussions on key infrastructure projects, including the extension of the Standard Gauge Railway (SGR) and the dualing of the Rironi–Mau Summit highway.
The visit will see Ruto engage with top Chinese leaders, including President Xi Jinping and Premier Li Qiang, to solidify agreements in various sectors like trade, agriculture, and technology transfer. The discussions will focus on financing Kenya’s ambitious projects and strengthen cooperation under the Belt and Road Initiative (BRI).
Ruto has emphasized the importance of leveraging China’s expertise in green energy and electric mobility, aiming to modernize Kenya’s transport network and reduce environmental impact. Additionally, he will advocate for reforming global financial systems to better support developing nations.
The trip will also see Kenya and China sign a Comprehensive Strategic Partnership Agreement, which will expand collaboration in key sectors such as healthcare, education, and digital infrastructure. As Kenya prepares for construction on the Rironi–Malaba highway in 2025, Ruto’s visit is expected to further solidify Kenya’s position as a leading partner in Africa’s economic development.