President William Ruto arrived in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia, ahead the Second United Nations Food Systems Summit Stocktake, where he is expected to advocate for Kenya’s priorities in the ongoing global dialogue on food systems transformation.

On arrival in the Ethiopian capital, the President was received by Ethiopian Deputy Prime Minister Temesgen Tiruneh.

Ruto also held talks with Ethiopia's Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed, where discussions focused on bilateral relations as well as regional issues of mutual interest.

"Kenya and Ethiopia share a deep and historically robust relationship grounded in good neighbourliness and strong diplomatic ties. This enduring partnership has been characterised by mutual respect and cooperation, fostering stability and collaboration in the Horn of Africa," said the President.

"Our ties are anchored on the Special Status Agreement signed in 2012, and which serves as a framework for enhanced cooperation in infrastructure development, energy, trade and investment, and regional integration."

A statement from the State House, released on Sunday, confirmed that the President will deliver Kenya’s national address at the summit.

His speech will outline Kenya’s commitment to building resilient and sustainable food systems, which the government sees as essential to achieving economic development, ensuring food security, and adapting to the growing challenges posed by climate change.

President Ruto is expected to use the platform to push for increased international cooperation in addressing the global food crisis. His message will emphasize the need for joint efforts, especially among African nations, to develop innovative agricultural solutions, strengthen food value chains, and build climate-smart food systems.

The summit comes at a critical time, with many countries grappling with climate-induced droughts, rising food prices, and supply chain disruptions.

In addition to attending the main plenary sessions, President Ruto is scheduled to take part in a series of high-level thematic discussions alongside world leaders, representatives from international development agencies, and key players from the private sector.

These sessions aim to generate practical ideas and partnerships that can accelerate progress toward sustainable farming, equitable food distribution, and inclusive economic growth.

The summit also presents a strategic diplomatic opportunity for Kenya. On the sidelines of the event, President Ruto will hold bilateral talks with Ethiopian Prime Minister Dr. Abiy Ahmed, Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni, and African Union Commission Chairperson H.E. Mahamoud Ali Youssouf.

These discussions are expected to focus on enhancing regional cooperation in areas such as agriculture, infrastructure development, climate action, and trade.

Through these engagements, President Ruto aims to position Kenya as a key voice in the global food security agenda while reinforcing its leadership role in regional and multilateral forums.

His participation at the summit underscores the government’s broader push to attract investment, secure development partnerships, and strengthen Kenya’s role in shaping international policy on food and climate resilience.