Ruto arrives in Japan for TICAD 9 conference
President William Ruto has arrived in Yokohama, Japan, for the ninth Tokyo International Conference on African Development (TICAD 9), where he is set to pitch Kenya as a leading entry point for investment into Africa.
In a statement posted on his X account on Tuesday, August 19, 2025, Ruto announced that Kenya would use the platform to showcase its strategic advantages and attract international partnerships.
“Arrived in Yokohama City, Japan, for the Tokyo International Conference on African Development (TICAD 9). At the meeting beginning Wednesday, we will advance the prime position of Kenya as the gateway to our region and the entire continent,” he wrote.
Investment opportunities
Ruto highlighted opportunities in infrastructure, special economic zones, agriculture, energy, ICT and digitisation as key areas for Japanese investors and development agencies.
“Kenya has many opportunities for investment in infrastructure development, special economic zones, agriculture, energy resources, ICT and digitisation, among others,” he stated.
He is accompanied by Prime Cabinet Secretary and Foreign Affairs Cabinet Secretary Musalia Mudavadi, along with other senior government officials.
“Accompanied by Prime Cabinet Secretary and Cabinet Secretary for Foreign Affairs Musalia Mudavadi and other officials,” he stated.
The presence of Prime Cabinet Secretary Musalia Mudavadi, who also serves as Foreign Affairs Cabinet Secretary, underscores the diplomatic significance of the mission.
Ruto’s itinerary
According to a press release dated August 18, 2025, Ruto is scheduled to hold bilateral talks with Japanese Prime Minister Shigeru Ishiba, focusing on strengthening trade, investment, and development ties between Kenya and Japan.
“Ruto will hold bilateral talks with several leaders, including Japanese Prime Minister Shigeru Ishiba, and will be received at the Imperial Palace by Their Majesties Emperor Naruhito and Empress Masako.
His meeting with Prime Minister Ishiba will focus on deepening the Kenya-Japan partnership and exploring new avenues for trade, investment, and international cooperation,” the statement reads.
The statement also noted that Ruto will use the TICAD 9 platform to advocate for deeper African integration and connectivity, emphasising the role of the African Continental Free Trade Area as a driver of inclusive growth.
“At TICAD 9, President Ruto will emphasise the African Continental Free Trade Area as a driver of inclusive growth, urge the removal of trade barriers, and seek stronger partnerships with Japan to boost investment in priority sectors.
He will also highlight the need to upgrade infrastructure, energy, logistics, and digital networks to better link Africa with global markets,” the statement continued.
“The visit is therefore expected to consolidate Kenya-Japan relations by expanding opportunities in trade, investment, and development cooperation,” the statement added.
