Kenya has become the first African country to enter into a formal climate and economic partnership with the State of California, in a move seen as a major step toward international collaboration on green development. The agreement was signed on the sidelines of the United Nations General Assembly in New York, with President William Ruto and California Governor Gavin Newsom present to witness the event.
In a statement posted on his official X account, President Ruto confirmed that the California–Africa Climate and Economic Partnership will focus on a wide range of joint efforts. These include sustainable transport, electric mobility, green ports, renewable energy, climate-smart agriculture, resilient food systems, green infrastructure, digital innovation, and climate adaptation across the continent.
"This partnership focuses on sustainable transport and electric mobility, green ports, climate-smart agriculture and resilient food systems, renewable energy and green infrastructure, digital innovation, and climate adaptation," he wrote.
As part of the deal, a Centre of Excellence on Clean Transport Systems in Africa will be set up in Kenya. The centre is expected to lead efforts in research, knowledge sharing, and development of clean mobility solutions across the region.
The initiative is seen as a clear signal of Kenya’s dedication to addressing climate change while positioning itself as a leader in green technology and innovation.
"This makes Kenya the first African country to sign an MoU with California," Ruto added.
The agreement builds on the momentum generated by the Addis Ababa Climate Declaration, which was adopted earlier this month during the Second Africa Climate Summit. That declaration called for Africa-led solutions, increased climate financing, and expanded investment in renewable energy, climate adaptation, and nature-based approaches.
The Addis Ababa Declaration also shifted the global view of Africa in the climate space — from being a continent seen mostly through the lens of climate vulnerability to one offering ideas and direction for tackling the crisis.
Kenya’s new partnership with California aligns with this new narrative, linking global cooperation with Africa’s climate goals. It is also expected to create opportunities for investment, joint research, and technology exchange to support stronger climate-resilient economies.
Beyond the environmental focus, the deal is expected to boost Kenya–U.S. ties and contribute to the wider goal of accelerating Africa’s green transition through homegrown and international solutions.