The visit takes place on Wednesday, 9 November 2022, at the invitation of H.E. Dr William Ruto, President of the Republic of Kenya.
The Presidents will hold discussions on bilateral political and economic matters, regional and continental issues as well as international developments. The State Visit comes a year after former President Uhuru Kenyatta paid a successful State Visit to South Africa on 23-24 November 2021.
The Heads of State will review the status of bilateral relations, including the implementation of previous Memoranda of Understanding and Agreements.
The two leaders will also witness the signing of instruments on cooperation in correctional services, human settlements, audiovisual co-production, and on building the capacity of the state with the National School of Government.
South Africa values Kenya as a strategic partner. Both countries share common values and principles which guide our domestic as well as foreign policies.
South Africa and Kenya are committed to: democracy, good governance, and respect for human rights including the emancipation of women and full realisation of gender equality; Pan-Africanism and a common vision for the development and Renaissance of Africa as encapsulated in the Agenda 2063; multilateralism and a rules-based international system; and the resolution of political disputes through peaceful and legal means including dialogue and negotiations.
The State Visit will include a Business Forum consisting of the private sectors of South Africa and Kenya, where participants will have the opportunity to share information and experiences in the business environment and opportunities to enhance trade and investment between the two countries.
Kenya is East Africa’s largest economy and South Africa’s largest trading partner in Africa outside the Southern African Development Community (SADC). Its GDP stands at USD110.35 billion (2021 – World Bank). South Africa exported over R6 billion worth of goods to Kenya in 2021 against imports of about R535 million from Kenya. There are more than 40 South African companies operating in Kenya with investments in the financial services, real estate, food and beverages, entertainment services, and hospitality sector, among others.
President Ramaphosa looks forward to fruitful engagements with President Ruto as the new President of the Republic of Kenya following peaceful and successful elections in August 2022.
The President is accompanied by the Minister of International Relations and Cooperation, Dr Naledi Pandor, Minister of Agriculture, Ms Thoko Didiza, Minister of Arts and Culture, Mr Nathi Mthethwa, Minister of Home Affairs, Dr Aaron Motswaledi, Minister of Trade, Industry and Competition, Mr Ebrahim Patel, Minister of Human Settlements, Ms Mmamoloko Kubayi, Minister of Justice and Correctional Services, Mr Ronald Lamola and Minister of Health, Joe Phaahla.
Media enquiries:
Vincent Magwenya
Spokesperson to the President
Cell: 082 835 6315
