Ruto’s UNGA deals: Jobs, AI, trade and Sh600bn investment for Kenya
NAIROBI, Kenya Sep 23 – President William Ruto’s engagements at the 81st United Nations General Assembly in New York are beginning to translate into a series of investment, technology, trade…
President William Ruto's engagements at the 81st United Nations General Assembly (UNGA) in New York are yielding significant opportunities for Kenya, according to State House Spokesperson Hussein Mohammed. Among the key announcements, the planned groundbreaking of the East Africa Refinery in Lamu has been announced, following talks with Nigerian businessman Aliko Dangote.
The refinery aims to process 700,000 barrels of crude oil daily, promising substantial jobs and industrial growth. Kenya has also unveiled a $600 million investment opportunity for clean cooking solutions, with the upcoming Second Africa Clean Cooking Summit set to take place in January 2027. In addition, Kenya is collaborating with Finland on an artificial intelligence initiative, focusing on investment, infrastructure, and skills development for young people.
The country has joined France, Spain, and Australia in developing a global roadmap for protecting children in the age of artificial intelligence. Kenya is also seeking deeper cooperation with the United States in AI, critical minerals, and nuclear energy. For Kenyans living abroad, the Kenya Diaspora Impact Platform will connect them to credible investment and development opportunities within Kenya.
The International Committee of the Red Cross plans to establish a global operations centre in Nairobi, enhancing Kenya's role as a regional hub for international organizations. Additionally, Kenya and Pakistan are negotiating a free trade agreement, with tea set to benefit from expanded market access. Trade talks with Ghana and Sierra Leone aim to increase trade, investment, and air connectivity, potentially leading to direct flights between Nairobi and Freetown.
The government also plans to strengthen cooperation with the United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime, focusing on cybercrime, maritime security, border control, and drug abuse. These announcements showcase Ruto's efforts to position Kenya as an investment and technology hub, while simultaneously seeking new partnerships across various sectors.
Written by urgent.news from Capital FM Kenya's reporting — not their text. Machine-written — may contain errors; check the original before relying on it.
