President William Ruto has strongly defended his frequent international travels, arguing that his overseas engagements are critical to advancing Kenya’s economic and diplomatic interests rather than personal leisure.
Speaking during a meeting with grassroots leaders from Marsabit County at State House Nairobi on Friday, the President dismissed criticism over his travel schedule, insisting that every trip is aimed at securing opportunities that benefit Kenya.
The remarks came shortly after his return from a five-day diplomatic tour that included official visits to Belgium and Norway and a State Visit to Finland.
The trip followed closely behind a two-day State Visit to South Africa, prompting renewed criticism from some Kenyans who have labelled him a “frequent flyer president” and questioned the cost of his travels to taxpayers.
President Ruto maintained that his role requires him to represent Kenya on the global stage and pursue strategic partnerships that can accelerate the country’s development agenda.
“You know, I wish they knew the kind of schedule that I have. I wish they knew what I’ve come to do. I have not come here as a tourist. I have not come here to waste time. I have come here pointedly to make sure that we achieve certain things,” he said during a town hall meeting with Kenyans in Helsinki, Finland, on the eve of his return.
The President emphasized that international diplomacy is a core responsibility of his office.
“Just for the record, I am the chief diplomat of our country,” Ruto stated, noting that Kenya continues to play an increasingly influential role in international affairs, including representing African interests at major global forums.
Ruto Links Foreign Engagements to Economic Growth
At State House, Ruto sought to demonstrate the practical benefits of his recent travels by highlighting economic and trade opportunities tied to the countries he visited.
“The people of Finland, where I came from this morning, are the ones who buy or drink the number one coffee in the whole world. Belgium is the country that buys the best coffee from Kenya at the highest value,” he said.
The President also pointed to Norway’s experience managing one of the world’s largest sovereign wealth funds, saying Kenya is drawing lessons as it moves toward establishing its own sovereign wealth framework.
“Norway is the country that has the sovereign wealth fund, the largest in the world. Right now, in Kenya, we are finishing the construction of the sovereign wealth fund in Kenya,” he noted.
Responding to critics who have questioned his administration’s performance, President Ruto pointed to progress in key sectors including agriculture, healthcare, and the economy.
The President argued that his administration’s development record should be the basis upon which Kenyans judge his leadership rather than political rhetoric.
He also dismissed accusations from opponents who have branded him a liar, saying tangible development projects across the country speak for themselves.
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