Ruto meets Kenyans living in US ahead of UNGA engagements

President William Ruto met with Kenyans residing in the United States in New York prior to his participation in the 81st United Nations General Assembly (UNGA). This meeting took place as Ruto embarked on a series of engagements in New York, where he aimed to promote Kenya's investment and trade interests and attract capital from Africa and around the world.

At the UNGA, Ruto's primary focus was on enhancing Africa's involvement in the digital and artificial intelligence industries, while also advocating for investments in energy, infrastructure, manufacturing, health, agriculture, and technology. He planned to co-chair business discussions hosted by the Africa Finance Corporation (AFC) and Global Africa Business Initiative (GABI), alongside industrialist Aliko Dangote.

These discussions would cover the proposed KSh2.2 trillion ($17 billion) East Africa Refinery in Lamu, an ambitious $17 billion project expected to generate over 60,000 jobs and bolster regional energy stability. The refinery is set to commence construction on September 30, 2026. Accompanying Ruto on this trip were First Lady Rachel Ruto, Prime Minister Musalia Mudavadi, Energy Cabinet Secretary Opiyo Wandayi, Mining Cabinet Secretary Hassan Joho, and Lands Cabinet Secretary Alice Wahome, among other government officials.