Kenyan President visits Oslo: Wants trade, not aid
Kenyan President William Ruto is currently on an official visit to Oslo. During his stay, he has delivered a clear message to Norwegian authorities and the business community: the time for traditional development aid is over.
The President believes that Kenya now needs a new type of cooperation with countries like Norway. Instead of receiving financial support, he wants Norwegian companies to invest in the country. The goal is to create jobs and economic growth through trade and collaboration between private companies.
According to Ruto, aid has played an important role in the past, but he emphasizes that Kenya is now ready to stand on its own two feet. He wants the country to become a more attractive partner for international investors, and he views Norway as an important player in this development.
The visit to Norway is part of the President's strategy to strengthen Kenya's economic ties to Europe. By focusing on investments rather than aid, he hopes that Kenya can build a more sustainable future for its population.
It remains to be seen how Norwegian authorities and the business sector will respond to the President's desire for increased trade. Regardless, the discussions in Oslo mark a shift in how many African countries wish to cooperate with international partners in the years to come.