President William Ruto has pitched Kenya as the preferred entry point into Africa for European investors, calling on businesses from Belgium, the Netherlands and Luxembourg to seize emerging opportunities across the continent.
Speaking at the Kenya–Belgium Business Forum in Brussels, Ruto said Africa possesses the resources, talent and potential to become a major driver of global economic growth, with Kenya strategically positioned as a gateway to the continent’s vast market.
Kenya Positioned as Africa’s Business Gateway
Addressing investors, policymakers and business leaders, the President emphasized Kenya’s role as a regional economic hub offering access to Africa’s 1.4 billion people as well as key international markets.
“Africa is the opportunity of this century, with the resources, talent and potential to drive global growth,” Ruto said.
“If Africa is the opportunity, Kenya is the gateway, offering access to Africa’s 1.4 billion people and key global markets,” he added.
The Head of State noted that Kenya’s strategic location, improving infrastructure and investor-friendly environment continue to make the country an attractive destination for international investment.
Call for New Africa-Europe Partnership
Ruto used the forum to advocate for a renewed partnership between Africa and Europe based on equality, mutual respect and shared economic interests.
“We are championing a new Africa-Europe partnership founded on sovereign equality, mutual benefit and shared prosperity,” he told delegates.
According to the President, the future of relations between the two regions should be driven by investment, innovation and value creation rather than traditional aid-based approaches.
Investment Opportunities Highlighted
During the forum, Kenya showcased investment opportunities in agribusiness, logistics, technology, renewable energy and the circular economy.
Ruto invited Belgian and Benelux companies to expand their presence in Kenya and collaborate with local businesses in sectors that support industrial growth and job creation.
“We have presented opportunities in agribusiness, logistics, technology, clean energy and the circular economy,” he said.
“We invite Belgian and Benelux businesses to partner with Kenya in value addition, manufacturing, innovation and sustainable industrialisation.”
The President noted that Kenya remains committed to creating an enabling environment that supports both local and foreign investors.
Kenya–Benelux Chamber of Commerce Launched
A key highlight of the event was the launch of the Kenya–Benelux Chamber of Commerce, which Ruto described as a significant step toward strengthening economic ties between Kenya and the Benelux region.
The new chamber is expected to facilitate trade, investment partnerships and business exchanges between Kenya and the three European countries.
“I am pleased to officiate the launch of the Kenya–Benelux Chamber of Commerce, a permanent bridge connecting Kenyan enterprise with the investors, innovators and markets of Belgium, the Netherlands and Luxembourg,” Ruto said.
Focus on Trade, Jobs and Shared Prosperity
The President expressed optimism that stronger business partnerships would boost trade volumes, create employment opportunities and unlock long-term economic benefits for both regions.
“Africa is the opportunity. Kenya is the gateway,” Ruto said.
“Let us build stronger partnerships that expand trade, create jobs and unlock shared prosperity for our peoples.”
The forum forms part of the President’s engagements aimed at attracting foreign investment, promoting exports and positioning Kenya as a leading destination for business and innovation in Africa.
