NAIROBI, Kenya- President William Ruto has departed for Rome on an official visit aimed at unlocking major infrastructure and investment deals between Kenya and Italy.
During the trip, Ruto is expected to hold high-level bilateral talks with Italian President Sergio Mattarella and Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni.
The discussions are set to deepen diplomatic and economic ties, with several memoranda of understanding (MoUs) and cross-sector agreements lined up for signing.
Focus on stalled dam projects
A key agenda of the visit is the acceleration of the long-delayed Arror, Kimwarer, and Itare dam projects—flagship investments under the government’s irrigation strategy.
The projects are part of Kenya’s broader plan to expand irrigation to 2.5 million acres over the next seven years, a move the government says will boost food security and position the country as a net agricultural exporter.
The irrigation drive is one of three pillars identified by the administration to spur economic transformation, alongside expanded infrastructure and accelerated energy generation.
Business and investment push
President Ruto is also scheduled to address the Kenya–Italy Business Forum, where he will pitch investment opportunities in infrastructure, irrigation, and energy.
He is expected to engage global investors and development partners, including the International Fund for Agricultural Development (IFAD) and the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO), as part of efforts to mobilise financing for key national projects.
The visit will also advance cooperation under Italy’s Mattei Plan, which focuses on strengthening partnerships with African countries in sectors such as agriculture, agro-industry, clean energy, healthcare, and human capital development.
State House Spokesperson Hussein Mohamed said the trip underscores Kenya’s commitment to building strategic partnerships that drive economic growth and development.
The outcome of the visit is expected to shape the future of Kenya–Italy relations while unlocking critical investments in infrastructure and agriculture.
