By Maximilla Wafula
MOSCOW – President William Ruto has declared that Africa can no longer remain a mere supplier of raw materials and a consumer of finished products, calling instead for a bold transition toward localized manufacturing, value addition, and robust technological partnerships. Delivering Kenya’s national statement at the Third Russia–Africa Summit in Moscow on October 29, 2026, President Ruto emphasized that Africa’s future economic engagement must be anchored on sovereign equality, mutual benefit, and shared prosperity.
Addressing Russian President Vladimir Putin, African Union Chairperson and Burundian President Évariste Ndayishimiye, alongside fellow Heads of State and delegates, President Ruto highlighted the deep historical ties between Africa and the former Soviet Union during the struggle for independence. He noted that today’s summit provides an opportunity to build upon that legacy through modern, equitable economic collaboration.
President Ruto stressed that while Africa has historically fueled global industries, it has captured only a fraction of the value it helps create. He stated that Africa cannot continue to be a supplier of raw materials and a consumer of finished products, and must now become a continent that manufactures, innovates, adds value, and competes in the global economy. Leveraging the 1.4-billion-strong market provided by the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA), Ruto invited Russia to partner in building productive capabilities across multiple sectors.
Highlighting immediate economic priorities, the Head of State pointed to several critical areas for expanded collaboration, including agriculture and food security through affordable fertilizers, local fertilizer manufacturing, agricultural mechanization, irrigation technology, research, and agro-processing. He also welcomed investments in industrial and energy infrastructure, engineering, mineral processing, and green energy that transfer technical expertise. Furthermore, he urged deeper cooperation in human capital, technical training, digital technologies, and healthcare priorities like local vaccine manufacturing.
Addressing environmental sustainability, President Ruto noted that Africa bears a disproportionate burden of climate change despite contributing the least to historical emissions. On global finance, Ruto argued that true transformation requires a fundamental overhaul of the international financial architecture to provide affordable long-term financing. Concluding his address, President Ruto reaffirmed the African Common Position calling for permanent representation for Africa on the United Nations Security Council, urging that the Russia-Africa Partnership Forum Action Plan translate commitments into tangible investments.
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