By Bonface Mulyungi

Government spokesperson Isaac Mwaura has defended President William Ruto’s visit to Azerbaijan and Kazakhstan, highlighting their importance to the country’s strategic and diplomatic ties.

In a press release, Mwaura said the President’s visit was aimed at unlocking economic opportunities in the country and strengthening Kenya’s diplomatic relations.

According to him, the high-level engagements positioned Kenya as a rising economic and diplomatic power in Africa.

“President Ruto’s growing influence on the international stage is opening doors for stronger bilateral and multilateral relations beyond Kenya’s traditional Western allies,” Mwaura said.

During the visit, he noted that the Head of State signed several bilateral agreements aimed at boosting export markets for Kenya’s agricultural products, such as tea, coffee, and horticulture produce.

Mwaura added that the expansion of the markets for Kenya’s products would help stabilise foreign exchange earnings, strengthen the shilling, and create opportunities for farmers, manufacturers, and small businesses.

The spokesperson also highlighted growing cooperation in the energy sector, saying the countries are exploring collaboration in petroleum infrastructure, refining, fuel distribution, and energy pricing.

“The Government believes that the partnership with Azerbaijan and Kazakhstan may accelerate low-cost fuel supply and shield the country from global fuel price shocks as it transitions towards clean energy and electric mobility,” he noted.

On investment, Mwaura said the Head of State’s visit resulted in confidence from investors, with multinational companies seeking to establish regional headquarters and distribution hubs in Nairobi.

According to him, these investments are expected to create jobs for thousands of young people, drive technology transfer, and boost industrial growth while increasing tax revenues critical for national development.

In a bid to strengthen ties between Kenya and the Central Asian country, Mwaura revealed the government’s plan to enhance aviation and transport links between the two nations.

He noted that there is a proposal for direct flights to be established between Nairobi and Astana, a move expected to boost trade, tourism, and people-to-people exchanges.