Ruto arrives in Oslo to strengthen Kenya–Norway bilateral ties
By Faith Lagat, June 9, 2026President William Ruto has arrived in Oslo, Norway, as part of a multi-country European tour that also includes visits to Belgium and Finland, aimed at strengthening Kenya’s bilateral relations and expanding cooperation in trade, investment, climate action and sustainable development.
The president confirmed his arrival in a statement on his official X account, dated June 9, 2026, saying: “Arrived in Oslo to further strengthen the longstanding bilateral ties between Kenya and the Kingdom of Norway. We are also here to advance our shared priorities in trade and investment, climate action and sustainable development.”
The visit is expected to include high-level meetings with Norwegian Prime Minister Jonas Gahr Støre and an audience with Crown Prince Haakon, as well as participation in a Kenya–Norway Business Forum.
Focus on trade, investment and climate cooperation
The Kenya–Norway Business Forum will focus on expanding cooperation in renewable energy, electric mobility, blue economy development, and climate-smart agriculture.
According to the itinerary, the discussions are expected to explore investment opportunities aimed at job creation and sustainable economic growth in both countries.
The visit builds on Kenya’s broader strategy to attract foreign investment and strengthen partnerships in green economy initiatives and innovation-driven sectors.
Kenya–EU engagements set stage for Norway visit
The Oslo trip follows earlier engagements in Brussels, where President Ruto held talks with European Union leaders on trade, digital transformation and economic cooperation.
During the Brussels visit, Kenya secured funding packages worth over Ksh139 million to support digital infrastructure and regional connectivity projects.
Key among them is the Ksh102 million EU–Kenya Digital Partnership, aimed at expanding broadband access and supporting digital innovation and entrepreneurship.
Kenya also received Ksh37 million for the Africa extension of the Blue Raman submarine cable project, which will connect several East African countries and improve internet connectivity and bandwidth reliability.
Ruto also held discussions with EU Executive Vice-President Henna Virkkunen, reviewing the EU–Kenya Economic Partnership Agreement and noting increased export growth since its implementation.
He further met European Council President António Costa, where discussions focused on trade, investment, regional security and reforms in global financial systems.
Strengthening Kenya’s global partnerships
The ongoing European tour highlights Kenya’s efforts to deepen diplomatic and economic ties with international partners while positioning the country as a regional hub for investment and innovation.
The engagements are expected to continue in Norway, with emphasis on climate finance, renewable energy cooperation and sustainable development initiatives.
The visit concludes with planned discussions in Finland, focusing on long-term cooperation frameworks in technology, education and green growth.