Ruto woos Zambia alliance to unlock billions in African trade expansion
By Kiprono Keileb, February 15, 2026President William Ruto has stepped up efforts to strengthen Kenya’s economic ties with Zambia, pushing for deeper cooperation in trade, investment and regional partnerships to boost opportunities for citizens in both countries.
This is in accordance with a statement shared on X on Sunday, February 15, 2026, after holding bilateral talks during a regional meeting in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia, where African leaders gathered to discuss cooperation and economic growth.
of Zambia in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia on Sunday, February 15, 2026: PHOTO/@WilliamsRuto/X
He stressed the long-standing friendship between Kenya and Zambia. He explained how both governments are working to deepen cooperation in trade, investment and people-to-people engagement to deliver direct benefits to ordinary citizens in the two countries.
“Kenya and Zambia enjoy cordial and excellent relations anchored in our shared interests. We are deepening cooperation in trade, investment and people-to-people engagement to expand opportunities and deliver tangible benefits to the citizens of our two nations,” the president stated.
The President also outlined ongoing collaboration within regional economic blocs and trade frameworks aimed at opening markets and making it easier for African countries to trade with each other instead of relying heavily on imports from outside the continent.
“We are also working together within COMESA, the Tripartite Alliance and the Africa Continental Free Trade Area to ensure our two countries, our regions and the entire continent trade more with one another to raise intra- African trade from the current 18 per cent,” the statement reads.
of Zambia in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia on Sunday, February 15, 2026: PHOTO/@WilliamsRuto/X
He further revealed that his engagement with Zambian leadership focused on practical ways of strengthening economic ties and building partnerships that can create jobs, attract investors and support long-term development for citizens across both nations.
“Held talks with President Hakainde Hichilema of Zambia, Addis Ababa, Ethiopia,” the statement reads,
Regional cooperation through blocs such as COMESA, the Tripartite Alliance and the African Continental Free Trade Area has been at the centre of efforts to grow intra-African trade and reduce barriers that slow down the movement of goods and services.