President William Ruto is set to depart for Beijing this Sunday evening to participate in the ninth Forum on China-Africa Cooperation (FOCAC), marking his first international trip since the outbreak of widespread protests in Kenya earlier this year. The high-profile summit, scheduled from September 4-6, 2024, aims to bolster the China-Africa partnership and explore new avenues for collaboration between the two regions.
FOCAC is a significant multilateral forum that serves as a platform for dialogue and cooperation between China and African nations, excluding the Kingdom of Eswatini. Established to enhance bilateral ties, FOCAC has evolved since 2018 into a crucial element of the Belt and Road Initiative (BRI), which seeks to foster global economic connectivity and cooperation.
This summit is particularly notable as it follows a tumultuous period in Kenya’s political landscape. President Ruto’s visit comes in the wake of substantial youth-led protests that erupted in June 2024. The protests, driven by discontent over the Finance Bill 2024, prompted Ruto to make dramatic political changes, including dismissing his entire Cabinet and forming a new, broad-based government. These reforms were part of his response to the Gen Zs’ demands and a broader effort to stabilize the country amid growing public unrest.
Ruto’s trip to China represents a critical opportunity for Kenya to secure development prospects and deepen its engagement with China. During the summit, discussions will center around several key areas, including green energy, internet connectivity, and political alliances. These topics are expected to be high on the agenda as both regions seek to leverage their strengths and address common challenges.
The summit will provide a platform for African nations, led by Ruto, to engage with Chinese officials and business leaders on various development initiatives. The focus on green energy aligns with global efforts to combat climate change and transition towards sustainable energy solutions. Similarly, discussions on internet connectivity are expected to address the digital divide and enhance technological infrastructure across Africa.
Ruto’s visit to Beijing is his first international trip outside Africa since June 2024. His last overseas engagement was at the inaugural Korea-Africa summit on June 4, where he represented Kenya in discussions aimed at strengthening ties with South Korea. Additionally, Ruto had attended the inauguration of President Paul Kagame in Kigali, Rwanda, signaling his commitment to regional diplomacy.
In Bungoma on Sunday, President Ruto highlighted the significance of his trip, stating that his visit to China is driven by a desire to seek development opportunities that will benefit Kenya and the broader African continent. He emphasized that the FOCAC summit offers a valuable chance to engage with global partners on issues that are crucial to Kenya’s growth and development.
The outcomes of the FOCAC summit could have a profound impact on Kenya’s future development trajectory. By participating in this high-level forum, Ruto aims to position Kenya as a key player in the evolving global landscape, leveraging China’s growing influence to advance national interests and enhance bilateral relations.
As President Ruto prepares for this important diplomatic mission, the Kenyan public will be closely watching the developments and hoping for tangible outcomes that will address their pressing needs and aspirations. The summit represents a significant opportunity for Kenya to advance its international relations and secure strategic partnerships that could drive its economic and social progress in the years to come.
