President William Ruto arrived in Addis Ababa on Sunday evening to participate in the Second United Nations Food Systems Summit Stocktake, where he is expected to lead Kenya’s call for climate-resilient food systems and sustainable development.
The Head of State was received at Bole International Airport by Ethiopia’s Deputy Prime Minister Temesgen Tiruneh ahead of the high-level forum, which brings together world leaders, development partners, and stakeholders to assess global progress on transforming food systems.
At the summit, President Ruto will deliver Kenya’s national statement, reaffirming the country’s commitment to reshaping its food systems to promote sustainable agricultural practices, improve nutrition, and enhance resilience to climate change.
His remarks are expected to echo his government’s broader vision for environmental stewardship and food security.
In addition to his official address, President Ruto will engage in a series of bilateral meetings with key leaders attending the summit.
These include Ethiopian Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed, Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni, and the African Union Commission Chairperson Mahmoud Ali Youssouf.
Ahead of the summit, Ruto met with Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed at the National Palace in Addis Ababa to strengthen diplomatic ties and explore deeper cooperation between Kenya and Ethiopia.
“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 President Ruto.
The President emphasized the importance of the 2012 Special Status Agreement between the two nations, which he described as a vital framework for enhanced collaboration in infrastructure development, energy, trade and investment, and regional integration.
President Ruto’s presence at the UN Food Systems Summit Stocktake is part of Kenya’s broader push to lead the global conversation on climate-smart agriculture and green growth.