Kenyans want their rights as free citizens respected, Dutch King Willem-Alexander tells Ruto
Over 300 emails were set to The Hague prompting the Dutch government to commit to ensuring King Willem-Alexander that he addresses those issues during his visit
The Netherlands’ King Willem-Alexander has defended Kenyans’ right to exercise their rights and freedoms following the fierce clampdown launched by the government in the aftermath of the Gen Z revolt las year.
In a statement he read during a joint press conference with President William Ruto at State House Nairobi, King Willem-Alexander said the people of Kenya, like those of the Netherlands, want their rights as free citizens to be respected, and their voices to be heard.
“The people of Kenya, like those of the Netherlands, want their rights as free citizens to be respected, and their voices to be heard. I’m pleased that our countries’ strong and mature relationship allows us to devote attention during this visit to issues like human rights, good governance and accountability,” he said.
King Willem-Alexander added that legal certainty has a fundamental role to play in this respect, and is also essential for Kenya’s economic development.
“We are grateful to have the opportunity to discuss the concerns that exist in these areas. Later this morning, at the ambassador’s residence, we will be meeting young Kenyans to hear their views on recent developments. What opportunities do they see to build a bright future for the country they love? A future in which everyone can participate on an equal footing,” King Willem-Alexander added.
The three-day State visit by King Willem-Alexander and Queen Máxima was nearly marred by protests from Kenyans and human rights groups who wanted the royals who wanted the royals to cancel it due to Kenya’s poor record as a result of the series of killings and abductions that followed last June’s demonstrations against proposed taxes and the high cost of living.
Over 300 emails were set to The Hague prompting the Dutch government to commit to ensuring King Willem-Alexander that he addresses those issues during his visit.
During the press conference, King Willem-Alexander described Kenya as a self-assured nation that is proud of its economic performance, its democracy and institutions, and its constructive and impactful international role.
“We attach great value to our cooperation with Kenya. This visit shows just how closely our interests are aligned, and how strong our ties have become. And not just our governments, but also our businesses, our NGOs and the many private parties in Kenya and the Netherlands who have teamed up on joint initiatives,” he said.
“We believe in the future of Kenya. A future that will be determined by the Kenyan people. With a population whose average age is 20, your country is fortunate that it can rely on the ideas and energies of millions of young citizens,” King Willem-Alexander added.
King Willem-Alexander and President Ruto witnessed the signing of signed three memoranda of understanding between Kenya and the Netherlands and a Letter of Intent that will boost trade between the two countries.
During the joint press briefing, President William Ruto said: “The Netherlands’ global leadership in sustainable agriculture, water management, and renewable energy aligns seamlessly with Kenya’s Vision 2030.”
King Alexander hailed the strong and cordial relationship between Kenya and the Netherlands stretching over 60 years.
“We attach great value to our cooperation with Kenya,” he said during the press briefing. “This visit shows how our interests are aligned and how close our ties have become.”
Present were Deputy President Kithure Kindiki, Prime Cabinet Secretary and Cabinet Secretary for Foreign Affairs Musalia Mudavadi, Cabinet Secretaries, Principal Secretaries and other leaders.
The MoUs are on a Joint Trade Committee to foster bilateral trade between the two countries and the Terms of Reference Agriculture Working Group aimed at enhancing agriculture in both countries.
Also signed was an MoU to foster tourism collaboration by encouraging more Dutch tourists to visit Kenya and more Dutch businessmen to invest in Kenya’s tourism sector.
The Letter of Intent is from Dutch company Invest International to fund two water projects – Naivasha Special Economic Zone Water Supply and Sanitation Project and the Sabaki Bulk Water Supply Project – at a total cost of €3 million (Ksh 423 million).
President Ruto said: “These projects will enhance access to clean and reliable water, a fundamental pillar for sustainable development and economic progress.”
The President commended the entry of Invest Africa, a Dutch investment entity, into the Kenyan market, saying it will provide much-needed capital for Kenya’s private sector.
The two leaders directed their ministers of Foreign Affairs to convene political consultations on Wednesday to define a clear pathway for co-operation on regional peace and security, climate change, multilateral engagement, and strategic development partnerships.
“At a time of fraying partnerships, I urged their Majesties to maintain the commitments of the Netherlands to the principles of global solidarity and subsidiarity,” he said.
The royal couple has a busy schedule during the State Visit. They will meet young Kenyans and hold talks on their aspirations.
“This will be a wonderful opportunity to meet Kenyans from different backgrounds and foster even closer ties between our two countries,” King Willem-Alexander said.
The King and Queen will also visit the Inland Container Depot at Naivasha, where they will launch a direct cold-chain corridor from Kenya to Rotterdam, an initiative that will revolutionise transportation of perishable goods.
They will also visit the Supreme Court and engage business people through the Kenya-Dutch Business Forum.
“I am confident that these engagements will provide Your Majesties with valuable insights into Kenya’s progress and opportunities for further collaboration,” said President Ruto.
