President William Ruto is set to depart for Japan this evening to attend the 9th Tokyo International Conference on African Development (TICAD 9) in Yokohama.

According to a statement by State House Spokesperson Hussein Mohammed, the visit is expected to consolidate bilateral ties by expanding opportunities in trade, investment, and development cooperation.

Talks will centre on flagship infrastructure projects such as the Mombasa Port expansion, the Mombasa Port Area Road Development, the Dongo Kundu Special Economic Zone, and Nairobi’s urban transport systems.

"Collaboration will also extend to agriculture, forestry, and climate change, with Japan already backing irrigation rehabilitation and reforestation initiatives," said State House.

Both countries are expected to further explore educational exchanges in Science, Technology, and Innovation to nurture skilled talent.

President Ruto will rally for deeper African integration, emphasising the African Continental Free Trade Area as a driver of inclusive growth.

He will call for the removal of trade barriers and seek stronger partnerships with Japan to boost investment in infrastructure, energy, logistics, and digital networks that connect Africa with global markets.

Ruto will hold bilateral talks with Japanese Prime Minister Shigeru Ishiba and will be received at the Imperial Palace by Emperor Naruhito and Empress Masako.

"His meeting with Prime Minister Ishiba will focus on strengthening the Kenya–Japan partnership and exploring new avenues for trade, investment, and international cooperation.