Kenya, Slovenia unite on climate, digital and peace goals - Ruto

Kenya and Slovenia have pledged to work together on climate action, innovation, and global peace, following bilateral talks between President William Ruto and visiting Slovenian President Nataša Pirc Musar in Nairobi.

Ruto said the State Visit, the first by a Slovenian Head of State to Kenya, had opened a new chapter in relations, built on shared values and long-term goals in sustainable development, digital progress, and multilateral engagement.

"Our talks were productive and covered a wide range of areas. This visit shows how much both countries value deeper and more meaningful cooperation," he added.

Climate and environmental conservation featured strongly in their discussions.

Ruto praised Slovenia’s achievement of over 58% forest cover and said Kenya was keen to partner on forest restoration, clean energy, and eco-tourism.

"We are inspired by Slovenia’s success and will work together on sustainable forestry and renewable energy," he said.

The President said both countries were aligned in their ambition for a green future and would explore joint projects in geothermal energy, solar power, and energy storage.

The two leaders also agreed to expand collaboration in the digital space.

Ruto said Slovenia’s experience in Artificial Intelligence, digital identity, and cybersecurity would support Kenya’s efforts to grow its digital economy.

"Slovenia is ahead in smart infrastructure and data protection, and we look forward to partnerships in e-government and emerging technologies," he said.

Ruto noted that trade and investment would be at the centre of their cooperation.

He welcomed the Slovenian business delegation and the Kenya–Slovenia Business Forum, saying the engagement would create new opportunities in ICT, pharmaceuticals, and agro-processing.

He said they would also work together to make the most of the Kenya–EU Economic Partnership Agreement, which came into force in 2024.

"We will rely on Slovenia to help raise awareness and expand access to the EU market," Ruto said.

In agriculture, Ruto said the two countries had already begun cooperation through a beekeeping project in Mandera, and had agreed to scale it to other parts of Kenya.

"This project supports food security, job creation, and conservation. It shows how partnerships can deliver real results," he stated.

Health and education were also discussed. Ruto said Slovenia’s public health systems and digital innovations could help Kenya improve its healthcare services, and that there would be more collaboration between health institutions.

The President added that Kenya was eager to adopt Slovenia’s dual training model in vocational education to prepare its youth for jobs in science, engineering, and technology.

"We want to empower our young people with practical skills to grow the economy," Ruto said.

On gender equality, Ruto said Kenya admired Slovenia’s progress and would seek to learn from its efforts to support women in leadership and business.

"Your example gives us useful lessons as we push for more inclusion," he said.

Ruto also noted that Kenya and Slovenia were united in supporting peace and security.

He welcomed Slovenia’s role on the UN Security Council and said the two countries would keep working together on regional and global stability.

"Our shared interest in peace includes the Horn of Africa, the Great Lakes region, and the wider world," he said.

Ruto said both sides had also agreed on the need to reform the UN and global financial systems to reflect current realities.

He said Africa must have permanent representation on the UN Security Council, and that developing nations deserve fairer terms in global finance.

"These systems must be inclusive, fair, and responsive," he said.

To guide future collaboration, Kenya and Slovenia signed a Memorandum of Understanding to hold regular political consultations on shared concerns.

Ruto ended his remarks by thanking President Musar for accepting the invitation to attend Madaraka Day celebrations in Homa Bay County.

"Your presence with us tomorrow is a strong sign of friendship. We welcome you again and wish you a fruitful stay," he concluded.