Ruto heads to UNGA to push Kenya’s global agenda
The assembly, themed “Restoring Trust and Managing Transformation: A United Nations that Delivers for All,” comes amid shifts in the global order, with discussions expected to focus on peace and security, the Sustainable Development Goals, climate resilience, human rights, digital governance, artificial intelligence and UN reform.
President William Ruto will attend the 81st United Nations General Assembly (UNGA) in New York next week, where Kenya plans to push its priorities on UN reform, peace and security, climate finance, digital cooperation and economic diplomacy.
Foreign Affairs Principal Secretary Dr Korir Sing’oei said the decision followed extensive consultations between the Foreign Affairs Ministry and the President’s office since July, with Ruto expected to spend four days engaging world leaders.
“We are very happy to announce that the President agreed to attend this UNGA,” Sing’oei said during a media briefing in Nairobi.
The assembly, themed “Restoring Trust and Managing Transformation: A United Nations that Delivers for All,” comes amid shifts in the global order, with discussions expected to focus on peace and security, the Sustainable Development Goals, climate resilience, human rights, digital governance, artificial intelligence and UN reform.
Sing’oei said presidential-level representation was important as Kenya seeks to advance discussions on debt sustainability, climate finance, digital trade and regional security, while promoting Africa’s call for reform of the UN Security Council and more inclusive global governance.
“Kenya, as a leading African democracy, a troop contributor, and the host of the United Nations in the Global South, must articulate this position personally and at the highest level,” he said.
The PS cited previous UNGA engagements as having generated investments and partnerships, including US$340 million approved in 2023 to expand the UN complex in Gigiri and a US$60 million Millennium Challenge Corporation threshold programme for Nairobi connectivity. Subsequent engagements also generated investment interest in health, geothermal energy and agri-tech.
President’s Technology Envoy Ambassador Phillip Thigo said AI would feature prominently, with Kenya advocating safe, inclusive and responsible use of the technology.
“AI must improve lives, strengthen institutions, expand economic opportunity, but also increase our capacity to respond to national and global challenges,” Thigo said.
He said Kenya would build on two UN resolutions it led on AI, while Ruto and Finland’s president are expected to lead a high-level event on AI middle powers.
Kenya will also participate in efforts to strengthen online safety for children and promote an Africa Resilience Compact to improve the continent’s response to climate shocks, including El Niño.
The delegation will further market Kenya as an investment and conference destination while advancing its role in digital governance and emerging technologies.
