President William Ruto has called for stronger cooperation between Kenya and the European Union. He wants support on election preparedness, security and economic reforms as the two sides mark 50 years of diplomatic relations.
The President spoke at State House, Nairobi, on Thursday, November 12. He was meeting more than 40 heads of EU delegations serving across Africa.
Ruto said Kenya was open to consultations on an EU Election Observation Mission ahead of the August 2027 General Election. He said any mission would operate under Kenya’s laws and procedures.
“Peace and stability must be reinforced by strong democratic institutions,” he said. He also reaffirmed the government’s stated commitment to accountability, human rights and the rule of law.
A Partnership Marks 50 Years
The meeting came during the golden jubilee of Kenya-EU diplomatic relations. The partnership dates back to 1976, when the European Community opened its delegation in Nairobi.
Ruto said the relationship should move beyond diplomatic agreements. He called for practical results in trade, investment, security and development.
“Ultimately, our partnership must be measured not by the meetings we hold or agreements we sign, but by the opportunities we create,” he said.
The President also called for a comprehensive strategic partnership. It would place greater emphasis on investments that create jobs and improve livelihoods.
Trade and Investment Take Centre Stage
The EU remains Kenya’s largest export market. It accounts for about one-fifth of the country’s exports, particularly flowers, tea, coffee and fresh produce.
Ruto called for full implementation of the Kenya-EU Economic Partnership Agreement. It came into force in July 2024 and provides Kenyan goods with duty-free, quota-free access to the European market.
However, exporters still face challenges. These include strict sanitary standards, high freight costs and inadequate cold-chain facilities. The President urged the EU to increase investment in manufacturing, agriculture, infrastructure, energy and healthcare. He also pointed to the Global Gateway initiative as a source of development financing.
He said investment should support local production, technology transfer and job creation.
Digital Cooperation and Connectivity
Kenya’s digital ambitions also featured in the discussions. Ruto said the country wanted to become a producer of technology and innovation, rather than simply a consumer.
The next Kenya-EU Digital Dialogue is scheduled for November 23 and 24. Discussions are expected to cover fibre-optic connectivity and the possible extension of the Blue Raman Submarine Cable to Kenya.
The proposed expansion could strengthen digital links. It would also support connectivity for businesses and public institutions.
Security Support and Somalia Mission
Regional security was another priority. Ruto appealed for sustained EU support for the African Union Support and Stabilisation Mission in Somalia.
He acknowledged an additional €75 million approved by the EU in April 2026 for missions in Somalia. The bloc’s total support to the missions since 2007 has reached nearly €2.8 billion.
The President also welcomed a separate €20 million commitment through the European Peace Facility to strengthen the operational capacity of Kenya’s defence forces. He expressed hope that the support would be delivered before the end of the year.
The assistance is expected to support security cooperation. However, the Somalia mission and the support for Kenya’s defence forces are separate commitments.
Kenya Seeks Exit From FATF Grey List
Ruto also asked the EU to continue providing technical assistance as Kenya works towards leaving the Financial Action Task Force (FATF) grey list.
He said the country had addressed 13 of the 21 strategic deficiencies identified by the financial watchdog. Work was continuing on the remaining reforms, particularly those targeting money laundering and terrorist financing.
The FATF’s October 30 update still listed Kenya among jurisdictions under increased monitoring. The country must therefore complete its agreed action plan before it can secure removal.
Ruto Calls for Fairer Global Financing
The President renewed calls for changes to the international financial system. He argued that high borrowing costs and debt burdens continue to limit Africa’s development.
He urged European partners to support more affordable financing. He also called for reforms to the United Nations Security Council, citing Africa’s historical under-representation. Ruto said the continent needed fairer access to funding for industrialisation, climate resilience and sustainable development.
From Commitments to Results
The meeting brought together several priorities in Kenya’s relationship with Europe. These included trade, investment, digital development, security and democratic governance.
Ruto said the next phase should focus on delivering measurable outcomes. The challenge will be turning the commitments into projects, jobs and stronger institutions.
For Kenya, the partnership offers opportunities to expand exports and attract investment. For the EU, it provides a platform to deepen cooperation with a key regional partner.
The 50-year milestone has set the stage for a broader partnership. Its success will ultimately be judged by what both sides deliver.
