President Ruto Heads to Japan for TICAD 9 Summit in Yokohama

Nairobi, Kenya – President William Ruto is set to leave the country on Monday evening, August 18, for a state visit to Japan where he will participate in the 9th Tokyo International Conference on African Development (TICAD 9), taking place in Yokohama.

Ruto’s Agenda at TICAD 9

According to State House Spokesperson Hussein Mohamed, the President will use the platform to push for deeper African integration and connectivity as a pathway to unlock the continent’s economic potential.

Ruto is expected to highlight the importance of the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) as a driver of inclusive growth, calling for the removal of trade barriers and stronger partnerships between Africa and Japan.

Focus on Infrastructure, Energy, and Digital Growth

The President will emphasize the need to enhance infrastructure, expand energy access, modernize logistics, and strengthen digital networks. These, he says, will position Africa more competitively in the global market while creating opportunities for trade and investment.

Bilateral Talks with Japan’s Prime Minister

On the sidelines of the summit, Ruto will hold high-level meetings with world leaders, including Japanese Prime Minister Shigeru Ishiba. Their discussions are expected to focus on expanding the Kenya-Japan partnership, with key areas of collaboration being trade, investment, and international cooperation.

Additionally, President Ruto will be hosted at the Imperial Palace by Emperor Naruhito and Empress Masako, underscoring the significance of Kenya’s relations with Japan.

Strengthening Africa-Japan Relations

TICAD 9 provides Kenya with an opportunity to deepen its economic diplomacy and attract more Japanese investment in priority sectors such as manufacturing, agriculture, renewable energy, and digital technology.

Ruto’s participation is also seen as part of his broader foreign policy strategy to position Kenya as a regional hub for trade and investment.