Ruto seeks expanded labour mobility deal, urges Russia to open doors for 30,000 Kenyan workers

Ruto seeks expanded labour mobility deal, urges Russia to open doors for 30,000 Kenyan workers

Ruto said closer cooperation with Moscow could open up additional overseas job opportunities for Kenyan workers as he sought to deepen bilateral economic ties during the Third Russia-Africa Economic and Humanitarian Forum.

President William Ruto has expressed Kenya’s interest in expanding its labour mobility programme to Russia, saying the initiative has already enabled 700,000 Kenyans to secure employment abroad.

Ruto said closer cooperation with Moscow could open up additional overseas job opportunities for Kenyan workers as he sought to deepen bilateral economic ties during the Third Russia-Africa Economic and Humanitarian Forum in Moscow on Wednesday.

The president called for an increase in the number of Kenyans working in the country to 20,000–30,000 through formal employment arrangements and a bilateral labour agreement.

“We have close to four million Kenyans working outside Kenya. I want to ask the Russian government to allow 30,000 Kenyans to work here in Russia. Kenya has a very efficient workforce that we are open to sharing. If we can establish a formal arrangement for Kenyans to work in Russia, I will be more than happy,” Ruto said.

Speaking at the Russia-Kenya Business Roundtable, the President also urged Russian investors to increase investments in Kenya, citing its economic growth, domestic market and strategic location as advantages for businesses seeking opportunities across Africa.

“With a population of 55 million, a GDP of USD136 billion (Sh18 trillion) and economic growth of 5.3 per cent in 2025, we offer a substantial domestic market and a strategic gateway to East and Central Africa,” he said.

Latest Stories

• Okoth sinks former club as Gor Mahia edge Homeboyz to maintain FKF Premier League perfect start
• Former EACC CEO Halakhe Waqo, NACADA boss Anthony Omerikwa among nine candidates on IEBC CEO shortlist
• Tanzania steps up Ebola screening at Namanga border after Kenya outbreak
• EPRA promises oil marketers compensation for excess fuel volumes amid price dispute

The head of state pointed out that Kenya’s economy was supported by a dynamic private sector, sophisticated financial services and expanding infrastructure, making it an attractive destination for investment.

He also noted that bilateral trade between Kenya and Russia stood at USD380 million (about Sh49 billion) in 2025, but said there was considerable room to expand cooperation across several sectors.

The President urged Russian investors to explore opportunities in mining and mineral processing, transport, heavy engineering, manufacturing, energy and fertiliser production.

He said Kenya wanted partnerships that would process local resources, strengthen supply chains, transfer skills and create jobs rather than rely on exporting raw materials without significant local value addition.

“This model has constrained Africa’s industrial development and denied our people the full economic benefits of their resources. It is neither sustainable nor acceptable,” he said.

Ruto also highlighted the imbalance in bilateral trade, saying Kenya exported goods worth USD52 million (about Sh6.7 billion) to Russia, mainly tea, coffee, flowers, fruits and vegetables.

In contrast, imports from Russia amounted to approximately USD330 million (about Sh42.8 billion), comprising wheat, fertilisers, iron and steel products.

Russian investment in Kenya stood at an estimated USD22 million (about Sh2.8 billion), a level Ruto said was significantly below its potential.

He assured prospective investors that Kenya had a strong legal framework to protect their investments and remained committed to creating a conducive business environment.

On the sidelines of the forum, Ruto held talks with Wildberries Chief Executive Officer Robert Mirzoyan on potential investment opportunities, particularly in online trading.

The President and other African leaders were later hosted by Russian President Vladimir Putin at the Gostiny Dvor Exhibition Centre for an exhibition showcasing advanced solutions in key economic sectors.

Ruto is accompanied by First Lady Rachel Ruto, Prime Cabinet Secretary Musalia Mudavadi, Trade Cabinet Secretary Lee Kinyanjui and Kenya’s Ambassador to Russia, Peter Mathuki, among other officials.