President William Ruto on Tuesday hosted Senegalese President Diomaye Faye at State House, Nairobi, marking a significant step in the growing bilateral relations between Kenya and Senegal.
President Faye, who arrived in the country on Sunday, was the chief guest during the Mashujaa Day celebrations held on Monday at Ithookwe Stadium in Kitui County. He was received at Jomo Kenyatta International Airport by Youth, Creative Economy, and Sports Cabinet Secretary Salim Mvurya.
The Senegalese leader’s visit aims to enhance cooperation between Nairobi and Dakar in areas such as trade, renewable energy, innovation, youth empowerment, and cultural exchange. Both nations share a vision of advancing Africa’s sustainable development agenda and empowering the continent’s youth.
In his address, President Faye hailed Kenya as a model of resilience and democratic progress in Africa. He praised the country’s commitment to peace, regional stability, and the principles of Pan-Africanism.
“Our nations share a history of struggle and a vision of an Africa that is united, peaceful, and sovereign,” he said, commending Kenya’s leadership and democratic achievements.
President Faye also offered condolences to the Kenyan people following the passing of former Prime Minister Raila Odinga on October 15, 2025. Speaking during the Mashujaa Day celebrations, he described Raila as a great leader and a pillar of African democracy.
“I pay tribute to his memory and express my deep compassion to President William Ruto, his family, and the people of Kenya. May his soul rest in peace,” he said.
President Faye, Africa’s youngest elected head of state since taking office in April 2024, emphasized the importance of strong African partnerships built on mutual respect and shared values of freedom, justice, and unity. His visit underlines a renewed commitment to strengthening Kenya-Senegal relations for a prosperous and inclusive African future.
