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Kenya has lauded Russia’s resilience in shaping its national destiny and acknowledged the country’s role in Africa’s decolonization as well as her solidarity with countries in the Global South in multilateral fora.
Speaking in Nairobi during celebrations marking Russia’s National Day, Foreign and Diaspora Affairs Principal Secretary Korir Singo’ei remarked that following political decolonization, Russia has continued to be a vital partner in supporting the development of the Global South.
“Following political decolonization, Russia continued to be a vital partner in supporting the development of the Global South. In challenging global forums, Russia has often raised its voice in support of our causes. For this, we are truly grateful.” Said PS Sing’oe.
Senior government officials, diplomats, and members of the international community gathered at the diplomatic event hosted by Russian Embassy led by Vsevolod Tkachenko, Ambassador of the Russian Federation to Kenya to commemorate the historic declaration of Russian sovereignty on June 12, 1990, a milestone that led to the formation of the modern Russian Federation.
Kenya and Russia underscored their commitment to deepening bilateral cooperation across a range of sectors, including education, trade, infrastructure, and cultural exchange.
In his keynote address, the Russian Ambassador to Kenya emphasized Russia’s enduring respect for international law, sovereignty, and multipolar cooperation.
He highlighted the two countries’ long-standing partnership, noting that Russia was among the first nations to recognize Kenya’s independence and has since remained a vital development partner.
“Russia is charting its own course, strengthening its political, economic, and technological independence, and we are proud to continue our collaboration with Kenya and other African nations based on mutual respect, equality, and shared benefit,” the Ambassador said.
He also pointed to Russia’s growing investments in Africa and reaffirmed Moscow’s support for initiatives that promote peace, stability, and sustainable development on the continent.
Bilateral trade between Kenya and Russia has grown significantly, surpassing USD 600 million in 2024, with increasing collaboration in sectors such as energy, logistics, and education.
The Foreign and Diaspora Affairs PS praised Russia’s historical support for African liberation movements and post-independence development efforts, particularly in education and human capital.
“When few stood with Africa in our fight for freedom, Russia did,” the official noted. “We recognize and appreciate the role it played not just in our political decolonization, but in supporting generations of African professionals through education and technical training.” PS noted.
The PS welcomed greater Russian business engagement in Kenya and the broader East African region, highlighting opportunities presented by the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA), which is expected to create a single market of over 1.5 billion people by 2030.
“We welcome Russian businesses to explore opportunities in our growing regional markets. As Africa integrates under the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA), we are creating a single market of 1.5 billion people by 2030. We believe this presents a compelling opportunity for deeper engagement, especially in light of our natural resources, youthful population, and technological ambitions.” He noted
The event concluded with a cultural showcase and a ceremonial toast to the enduring friendship between Kenya and Russia.
