Kenyan President, William Ruto, defends prolific overseas visits, citing economic gains

In a spirited defense of his frequent international travels, President William Ruto of Kenya has attributed these visits to substantial economic improvements in the nation.

Despite facing criticism for embarking on more foreign trips in a single year than any of his predecessors, Ruto contends that these journeys have yielded significant benefits.

Since taking office in September 2022, President Ruto has embarked on a whirlwind tour, reportedly visiting a remarkable 38 nations, as reported by local media.

On Sunday, he took the opportunity to address his detractors and provide insight into the purpose and outcomes of his international missions.

During a speech at a church gathering, Ruto stated, “There are people on my case as to why I am making foreign trips. That’s my mandate as the president. I am the chief agent of Kenya and ambassador who will plan on how the country will move forward.”

This statement underscores his conviction that these trips are in the best interest of Kenya’s future.

Ruto further defended his overseas excursions by highlighting the tangible results they have produced. Notably, during recent visits to Saudi Arabia and China, the Kenyan president asserted that he had successfully secured 350,000 job opportunities for Kenyan citizens and promising investment prospects.

These achievements, he argued, are crucial steps towards bolstering the nation’s economy and fostering international cooperation.

While his travel frequency has raised eyebrows, Ruto’s emphasis on job creation and bilateral agreements aimed at expanding markets for regional produce serves as a compelling rationale for his extensive international engagements.

The impact of these endeavors on Kenya’s economic landscape remains a subject of debate, but Ruto’s commitment to advancing the nation’s interests on the global stage appears unwavering.