ROME (Horn post)— Kenyan President William Ruto on Sunday announced a series of new agreements with Italy aimed at strengthening bilateral ties in trade, infrastructure, education and technology, following talks with Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni in Rome.
Speaking during an official visit marking 80 years since Italy’s independence, Ruto said the two countries signed at least eight agreements covering grants, investment frameworks and cooperation in key sectors including renewable energy, research and vocational training.
The leaders also endorsed a three-year action plan to deepen collaboration and accelerate joint projects, with Kenya included in the first phase of Italy’s Africa-focused development initiative, the Mattei Plan.
Ruto welcomed Italian support for projects targeting arid and semi-arid regions, forest restoration and peace and security training, alongside new funding for technical and vocational education. He said at least 60 training institutions in Kenya are expected to benefit from upgraded equipment and investment.
The agreements also advance cooperation in healthcare, with plans to improve medical facilities across 15 counties as part of Kenya’s universal health coverage agenda.
On trade, Ruto highlighted opportunities for joint ventures in leather manufacturing and coffee production, positioning Kenya as a strategic gateway to African markets under the African Continental Free Trade Area.
He also underscored growing collaboration in digital innovation, including artificial intelligence, as Kenya seeks to expand its role in emerging technologies.
The visit signals renewed momentum in Kenya–Italy relations, which span more than six decades, as both countries aim to expand economic ties and address regional challenges through international partnerships.
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Prepared by:
Horn post staff
