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President William Ruto left Nairobi on Monday evening for Yokohama, Japan, where he will participate in the 9th Tokyo International Conference on African Development (TICAD 9).
State House Spokesperson Hussein Mohamed said Kenya remains the largest recipient of Japanese aid in Africa, with support surpassing KSh600 billion. He noted that the visit seeks to strengthen bilateral ties through enhanced trade, investment, and development cooperation.
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Talks between the two nations will focus on key infrastructure projects, including the expansion of Mombasa Port, the Mombasa Port Area Road Development Project, and the Dongo Kundu Special Economic Zone. Nairobi’s urban transport system will also be on the agenda.
Other priority areas highlighted include agriculture, irrigation, forestry, reforestation, and climate change mitigation. Additionally, both countries will seek to expand education and training opportunities in science, technology, and innovation.
At the summit, President Ruto is expected to advocate for deeper African economic integration, stressing the African Continental Free Trade Area as a tool for inclusive growth, while pushing for the removal of trade barriers and stronger collaboration with Japan in key sectors.
On the sidelines, Ruto will hold bilateral talks with Japanese Prime Minister Shigeru Ishiba and later meet Emperor Naruhito and Empress Masako at the Imperial Palace.
“The discussions with Prime Minister Ishiba will revolve around strengthening Kenya–Japan cooperation and exploring fresh avenues in trade, investment, and global partnerships,” Mohamed said.
