President William Ruto has extended a warm invitation to Japan’s newly elected Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi, pledging to strengthen bilateral cooperation between Nairobi and Tokyo.
In a message issued on Tuesday, October 21, President Ruto congratulated Takaichi on her historic victory, describing it as “a powerful vote of confidence in her vision, leadership, and commitment to Japan’s prosperity.”
“Your victory is a testament to the confidence reposed in your vision and leadership,” Ruto stated. “It would be a singular honour for Kenya to host you, Prime Minister, as we chart a renewed and ambitious path for the future of our partnership.”
The Kenyan Head of State reaffirmed Kenya’s enduring commitment to its strategic ties with Japan, highlighting areas such as economic development, peace and security, and multilateral cooperation. He lauded Japan’s longstanding support through development programs that have greatly contributed to Kenya’s growth.
Ruto’s letter comes shortly after Takaichi known for her conservative views and close ties to the late former Prime Minister Shinzo Abe secured her position through a coalition between the ruling Liberal Democratic Party and the Japan Innovation Party. Her ascent marks a major shift in Japan’s political landscape, with expectations of a stronger nationalist stance and renewed economic policies.
Recalling his February 2024 state visit to Japan, the first by a Kenyan president in two decades, Ruto reflected on discussions held during the Ninth Tokyo International Conference on African Development (TICAD 9). “My participation in TICAD 9 provided an excellent opportunity to build upon previous engagements and advance private sector-led initiatives for mutual benefit,” he noted.
The President urged Takaichi to keep Africa central to Japan’s foreign policy priorities, emphasizing Kenya’s readiness to collaborate on addressing global challenges and strengthening international systems for shared progress.
Despite controversy over her limited female cabinet appointments, Ruto reaffirmed Kenya’s role as a reliable partner in Japan’s ambitions across Africa.
