Ruto heads to Germany for two-day official visit focused on trade, culture

President William Ruto is scheduled to depart for Germany on Thursday evening for a two-day official visit.

In a statement, State House spokesperson Hussein Mohamed announced that the visit will involve several high-profile engagements designed to bring tangible benefits to Kenya.

“This visit signifies a major milestone in the enduring partnership between Kenya and Germany, which has lasted over 60 years. The aim is to enhance cultural, economic, and diplomatic relations,” Hussein said.

During the visit, Ruto will sign the Kenya-Germany Comprehensive Migration and Mobility Partnership Agreement which outlines a framework for cooperation on labour mobility, apprenticeships, student training, employment, employee welfare, and the return of citizens.

Ruto will also attend the Annual Citizens' Festival (Bürgerfest) where he will address this year’s Citizen’s Festival, themed “Pamoja - Stronger Together,” where Kenya has been honoured as the profile partner country.

Hussein said this is the first time a non-European country has been selected for the role, offering a unique platform to showcase Kenya’s rich cultural heritage.

“Cultural exchange has been the cornerstone of our connection, with institutions like the Goethe-Institut in Nairobi playing a crucial role in promoting German culture in Kenya since 1963,” he said.

The President will also meet with German President Frank-Walter Steinmeier and Chancellor Olaf Scholz to discuss enhancing cooperation in green energy and climate action, digital innovation, trade and investment, skills development, and regional and international peace and security.

Additionally, President Ruto will engage with prominent German business leaders at a special forum to boost trade and investment opportunities between the two countries.

The forum will feature CEOs from major companies including Mercedes Benz, YouTube, and AIDA Cruises.

Hussein noted that Germany’s investment in Kenya is significant, with over 100 German companies investing approximately Sh150 billion.

Nairobi hosts the largest global office for the German Agency for International Cooperation (GIZ) and the regional office for Germany’s top trade promotion agency, AHK.

According to Hussein, the agreement will facilitate the immigration of skilled workers who have completed vocational or university-level training, with Germany waiving the labour market test requirement for Kenyans.

The partnership will also see Germany offer long-stay visas to Kenyans pursuing studies or vocational training, allowing them to gain professional experience and potentially secure employment in Germany.

He further emphasised that the Citizen's Festival will elevate the visibility of Kenyan culture in Germany, fostering greater appreciation and boosting tourism and cultural exchanges.

“Last year saw a 23.2 per cent increase in German tourists visiting Kenya,” he said.

The visit also aims to promote investment in key sectors such as manufacturing, agriculture, tourism, and the creative economy, positioning Kenya as a prime investment destination for German businesses.

“This visit not only reaffirms the strong ties between Kenya and Germany but also opens new avenues for cooperation that will benefit the people of both nations,” Hussein said