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President William Ruto has described his upcoming participation in the G7 Summit in France as a sign of Kenya’s rising diplomatic influence, saying he will use the forum to advance Africa’s development priorities and push for reforms in the global economic system.
Speaking during a Sunday church service at Nkarusha Seventh Day Adventist Church in Kajiado County, Ruto said Kenya’s growing role in major international platforms reflects its increasing voice in global discussions on trade, investment, climate action and economic transformation.
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The President confirmed that he will travel to France this week to attend the summit, where he will represent African interests and present proposals aimed at unlocking the continent’s vast resources for development.
“I will go to represent Africa at the G7 meeting,” Ruto said, adding that the goal is to explore how Africa’s land, population and resources can be leveraged for prosperity.
His remarks come amid criticism over his frequent foreign trips, with some leaders questioning their cost and impact. However, Ruto defended the engagements, arguing that Kenya must remain active in global decision-making spaces to attract investment and boost economic growth.
He said Africa is undergoing a shift in economic thinking focused on reducing poverty and increasing value from its natural resources, pointing to initiatives such as the Africa Climate Summit and Africa Forward Summit as examples of growing continental ambition.
Ruto emphasized the need to reposition Africa away from narratives of poverty and conflict toward opportunity, wealth creation and development.
He also linked Kenya’s international engagement to domestic reforms, citing increased funding in the 2026/27 Budget, including Sh63 billion for agriculture and Sh784 billion for education, as part of broader economic transformation efforts.
According to him, ongoing reforms since 2022 are beginning to show results in lowering the cost of living, supporting farmers and improving access to education.
Ruto further stressed that Kenya’s foreign relations should be based on mutual benefit rather than unequal partnerships that favour wealthier nations.
The G7 Summit will bring together leaders of the world’s largest economies to discuss global economic growth, security, climate change and international cooperation, with African leaders expected to push for stronger representation in global financial systems and increased climate financing.
