Finland’s President, Alexander Stubb, and his spouse, Suzanne Innes-Stubb, are set to embark on a historic state visit to Kenya from May 12 to May 14, 2025, marking the 60th anniversary of diplomatic relations between the two nations. This will be the first presidential visit from Finland to Kenya, underlining the strengthening of bilateral ties over the years.
The visit will begin in Nairobi, where President Stubb is scheduled to meet with Kenya’s President, William Ruto. Their discussions will center around enhancing bilateral relations, addressing global challenges, and promoting cooperation within the multilateral system, particularly in Africa and Europe. The leaders are expected to explore joint efforts in tackling common issues such as climate change, peace, and sustainable development.
On the first day, May 12, the two presidents will participate in a wreath-laying ceremony at Uhuru Gardens, honoring Kenya’s national heroes. Later, President Ruto and First Lady Rachel Ruto will host the Finnish presidential couple at a state banquet.
During the visit, President Stubb will meet with local NGOs and foreign policy experts to delve into regional dynamics and social development. He will also address students at the University of Nairobi, discussing geopolitics and the evolution of the multilateral order.
Business cooperation will be another focal point of the visit, with a seminar organized by Business Finland. The event will focus on Kenya’s built environment and health sector, areas where Finland has extensive expertise. Additionally, President Stubb will visit vocational training institutions supported by Finnish foreign aid, highlighting the importance of quality education and labor market relevance.
In his itinerary, President Stubb will also visit Kawangware, an area benefiting from an EU-Finnfund project to boost digital connectivity in Kenya. He is set to meet with the Director-General of the UN Office in Nairobi and the Executive Directors of UNEP and UN-Habitat to discuss the future of the UN and the role of Nairobi in global diplomacy.
Accompanied by key Finnish MPs and a diverse business delegation, President Stubb’s visit underscores Finland’s commitment to deepening its relationship with Kenya across various sectors.
