Ruto, Meloni seal 2026–2029 “action plan” to deepen Kenya–Italy ties

William Ruto and Giorgia Meloni on Monday adopted what the two governments described as a “2026–2029 action plan” to deepen ties. The agreement followed Ruto’s official visit to Rome, where both leaders cited “the strong and longstanding relations between their nations” and said the partnership would be “further strengthened by the Mattei Plan for Africa.”

The two sides pledged to “enhance political dialogue through reciprocal high-level visits and regular exchanges”, including consultations between their foreign ministries under an existing memorandum. They also agreed to reinforce cooperation in international bodies such as the United Nations to address “global challenges such as technology, migration, sustainable development and climate change.”

Both governments said they would promote “joint efforts aimed at fostering peace, stability and security in Africa and beyond”, while exploring synergies under the Mattei Plan to support “inclusive growth, regional integration, and trade” within the African Continental Free Trade Area.

On economic ties, the leaders said they reaffirm “the shared goal of strengthening bilateral economic relations” and boosting trade and investment flows. They highlighted the need to “support private sector engagement and facilitate partnerships between Italian and Kenyan enterprises”, including through a business forum held during the visit. Tourism was also flagged as “a driver of cultural exchange, economic prosperity, and community empowerment.”

Ruto and Meloni also welcomed a defence cooperation agreement, saying its implementation would be guided by “mutual consent, transparency, and clearly defined priorities and safeguards.” The agreement aims to address shared challenges such as maritime security and counterterrorism “in a manner that preserves authority over territory, territorial waters, and airspace.”

Kenya has deepened its ties with Western powers over the past decade, positioning itself as a formidable ally within the U.S.-led geopolitical framework, even as it maintains strong relations with China. Chinese firms and state-backed initiatives have played a significant role in Kenya’s development, financing and constructing major infrastructure projects while expanding trade and investment links.

In mid-2024, the United States designated Kenya as a major non-NATO ally, a move that underscored its importance as Washington’s closest strategic partner in the region. This designation came at a time of intensifying geopolitical competition across East Africa, where influence is no longer limited to traditional Western powers. Emerging middle powers such as Turkey, along with wealthy Gulf states like the United Arab Emirates, Saudi Arabia, and Qatar, have increasingly asserted their presence through investment, diplomacy, and security cooperation.

Within this broader context of expanding regional competition Nairobi continues to engage with China and, to a lesser extent, Russia, while reinforcing its longstanding partnerships with Western nations.