Ruto mourns King Harald V, recalls his historic visit to Norway 3 months before his death

President William Ruto has paid tribute to the late King Harald V of Norway, describing him as an exceptional leader who embodied duty, dignity, humility and devotion to his people. King Harald V passed away peacefully at Oslo University Hospital on August 28, 2026, at the age of 89, having reigned over Norway since 1991. President Ruto conveyed his condolences to Queen Sonja, the Royal Family, the Norwegian Government and the people of Norway, expressing deep sympathy for their loss.

The President's condolence message was issued just three months after his own historic visit to Norway, which marked the first official visit by a sitting Kenyan Head of State. Ruto fondly recalled the warm hospitality extended to his delegation and his audience with Crown Prince Haakon at the Royal Palace, noting that the visit fostered warmth, friendship and opened a new chapter in the relationship between Kenya and Norway.

The President emphasized that the areas of cooperation between Kenya and Norway, including peace and security, climate action, maritime affairs and trade, reflected the values that characterized King Harald’s reign and Norway’s engagement with Kenya and Africa. Ruto pledged that Kenya would continue nurturing the friendship between the two nations, honoring King Harald's memory and deepening the partnership between the two countries.