Kirinyaga Governor Anne Waiguru joined President William Ruto’s delegation in Luanda, Angola, on Wednesday for high-level bilateral talks with President João Lourenço. The discussions focused on strengthening diplomatic and economic ties between Kenya and Angola, including the resumption of Kenya Airways flights to Luanda and the mutual waiver of visa requirements for Kenyans.
President Ruto announced that Kenya Airways will resume flights to Luanda in March 2025. “Coupled with the reciprocal waiver of visa requirements for Kenyans, this will strengthen bilateral ties and expand opportunities for enhanced cooperation and mutual benefits,” he said.
Waiguru’s presence at the talks underscores the growing role of county governments in fostering international partnerships. The Governor lauded the agreements, noting their potential to boost trade and economic collaboration between the two nations.
Earlier in the week, Waiguru was also part of the Kenyan delegation that accompanied Ruto to Ghana for the inauguration of President John Dramani Mahama. The event marked a historic milestone with the swearing-in of Ghana’s first-ever female Vice President, Professor Naana Jane Oppku-Agyemang.
Waiguru described the occasion as a pivotal moment for African leadership and a significant stride in women’s empowerment on the continent. “This is a true reflection of the progress we are making as a continent in advancing gender equity and inclusive leadership,” she said.
Other notable Kenyan leaders present in Ghana included Prime Cabinet Secretary Musalia Mudavadi and Homa Bay Governor Gladys Wanga.
The Kenyan delegation’s participation in both the Angola talks and the Ghanaian inauguration reflects the country’s commitment to fostering strong international relations and championing progressive leadership in Africa.
Waiguru, a vocal advocate for women’s leadership, emphasized the importance of Kenyan leaders engaging in such pivotal moments to strengthen ties and exchange best practices in governance and development.
The dual engagements signify Kenya’s strategic efforts to solidify its diplomatic influence while advocating for regional integration and cooperation in Africa.
