President William Ruto has pledged Kenya’s commitment to working closely with Japan and the global community in addressing global challenges such as future pandemics, climate change, and food insecurity.

Addressing the Yokohama City Assembly during his visit to Japan on August 20, 2025, Ruto underscored the interconnectedness of humanity and the importance of international cooperation in tackling shared global threats.

“Allow me to reiterate that humanity has always thrived through cooperation. In today’s interconnected world, our interdependence is more evident than ever,” he stated.

Ruto emphasised that cooperation has always been essential for human progress, especially in today’s context where global issues require coordinated responses.

“Whether responding to pandemics, mitigating climate change, combating food insecurity, or maintaining peace, Kenya is committed to working with Japan and the global community to confront these challenges together and to explore opportunities for our mutual benefit,” Ruto told the assembly.

Strong foundation

Ruto further highlighted the strong foundation for cooperation between Kenya and Japan, citing shared democratic values as the basis for collective problem-solving.

“Our shared values of democracy, freedom, and the rule of law give us a solid foundation to pursue collective solutions for humanity,” he noted.

Ruto positioned Kenya as a strategic partner for Japan, emphasising the country’s technological capabilities and skilled workforce ready to contribute to global innovation efforts.

“Our country boasts a large pool of well-educated, tech-savvy young people who are adequately equipped to work with the most advanced technologies to drive innovation across our continent and globally,” he explained.

Competitive advantage

Additionally, Ruto outlined Kenya’s competitive advantages that make it an ideal partner for Japanese investment and collaboration, including its green energy profile and sustainable agricultural practices.

“Kenya’s energy mix is already 90% green and renewable, giving investors access to reliable, competitively priced power with one of the lowest carbon footprints globally,” he stated.

He noted that this green energy foundation provides an ideal platform to anchor industrial capacity for companies seeking environmentally sustainable operations.

“Our agricultural sector offers high-quality products produced through sustainable practices, ensuring minimal carbon footprint and alignment with global climate-conscious supply chains,” he explained.

Gateway to Africa

Ruto reinforced Kenya’s role as Japan’s entry point to the broader African market, highlighting the East African Community’s economic potential with a population of 300 million and a combined GDP of nearly $330 billion.

“With the alignment of the East African community and the African continental free trade area, investors gain access not only to East Africa but also to the entire continent,” Ruto said.

“Just as Yokohama is Japan’s gateway to the world, Kenya is your gateway to East Africa and the wider African continent,” he added.