Ruto's International Visits Result in 350,000 Jobs in Saudi Arabia, Says Government Spokesman

President William Ruto's international trips have been defended by Government Spokesman Isaac Mwaura, who asserts that they have brought numerous benefits to the country.

These recent travels have underscored Kenya's focus on building international relations as a means to boost economic growth and global influence. The Spokesman says that such visits have enabled the nation to welcome more than 30 heads of state and forge important agreements that strengthen its reputation as a diplomatic leader. Impressively, according to Mwaura, these trips have resulted in 350,000 job openings for Kenyans in Saudi Arabia.

During talks with UK Prime Minister Rishi Sunak, deals worth $5 billion (Sh450 billion) were secured for investments in Kenya. Other notable accomplishments include opening the Kenyan embassy in Senegal, ratifying the East Africa One Area Network for Mobile Telephony with President Paul Kagame, and establishing the Kenya-Djibouti Business Council. Several Memorandums of Understanding (MoUs) have also been executed with Congo President Denis Sassou Ngweso in multiple areas - such as energy, transport, agriculture, security, education, culture, tourism, trade and investment.

Enhancing connectivity and bolstering economic opportunities, Kenya Airways has resumed flights to Brazzaville after an agreement was signed to facilitate business operations with Kenya. In light of all these, the Chinese Embassy has cancelled visa appointments for Kenyan visitors. China has also established a memorandum of understanding (MoU) with Kenya that aims at boosting investments in the country's renewable energy sector; adopting innovation strategies and facilitating cost-effectiveness.

To counter criticism about his continuous foreign business trips, Kenyan Head of State Dr Ruto defended his actions in October, labelling them as a necessary component to lead his nation. Reports highlight that Mr Ruto has flagged off 83 foreign days, visiting a record number of 45 different cities during these days. Former President Uhuru Kenyatta visited a total of 53 countries during his time in office, while Deputy President Ruto recently completed his 39th trip abroad.

Among the nations Ruto has visited are the United Kingdom, France, Mozambique, Egypt, Eritrea, Rwanda, South Korea, South Africa, Tanzania, and Uganda.