Dutch King Willem-Alexander and Queen Maxima arrived in Kenya on Monday evening for a four-day state visit aimed at strengthening bilateral ties. The royal couple was received at Jomo Kenyatta International Airport by Deputy President Kithure Kindiki and Agriculture CS Mutahi Kagwe, alongside other dignitaries. The visit, at the invitation of President William Ruto, underscores Kenya and the Netherlands’ longstanding economic and diplomatic relations.
On Tuesday, President Ruto and First Lady Rachel Ruto officially welcomed the King and Queen at State House, Nairobi, with a ceremonial reception. This was followed by a private meeting between the two leaders and the signing of key Memoranda of Understanding (MoUs) covering trade, tourism, agriculture, security, and fisheries. The royal couple later laid a wreath at the Tomb of the Unknown Warrior in honor of Kenya’s independence heroes before engaging in discussions with young Kenyans on governance, democracy, and human rights.
The afternoon featured a tree-planting ceremony as part of the Netherlands’ support for Kenya’s ambitious tree-growing initiative. The King and Queen then attended a high-profile business forum that focused on sustainable agriculture, water management, logistics, healthcare, and education. More than 50 businesses, institutions, and NGOs participated, exploring investment opportunities and partnerships between the two nations. The day concluded with a state banquet hosted by President Ruto at State House.
On Wednesday, the royal couple visited the Inland Container Depot (ICD), where they explored Kenya’s logistics sector and the transition towards maritime freight for perishables such as flowers and avocados. They also toured a Dutch horticultural business investing in sustainability and social welfare. Later, they joined a thematic session on climate change, discussing water security and environmental challenges in East Africa.
Thursday’s agenda includes a visit to the Supreme Court for discussions with Chief Justice Martha Koome on judicial independence and access to justice. The King and Queen will also visit the International Peace Support Training Centre (IPSTC) to discuss defense cooperation and efforts to combat extremism.
The visit highlights Kenya and the Netherlands’ shared commitment to economic growth, sustainability, and regional security, further strengthening their partnership in critical sectors.
