Finland President Alexander Stubb to Visit Kenya in May

In a move signalling strengthened bilateral ties, Finnish President Alexander Stubb is scheduled to conduct a state visit to Kenya from May 12 to May 14, 2025. 

This marks the first time a Finnish head of state has visited Kenya, a milestone event that coincides with the 60th anniversary of diplomatic relations between the two nations. The Republic of Finland and Kenya established diplomatic relations in 1963, a pivotal year for Kenya as it gained independence. Since then, cooperation has largely been maintained through ministerial meetings and development initiatives, with Finland significantly contributing to Kenya's advancements in education, healthcare, and digital infrastructure. 

President Stubb's upcoming visit underscores a significant evolution in the relationship, transitioning from primarily developmental cooperation to high-level strategic engagement. Stubb's itinerary is designed to balance ceremonial duties with substantive discussions on future cooperation, commencing with a formal meeting with Kenyan President William Ruto in Nairobi. The leaders are expected to address bilateral relations, pressing global challenges impacting both Africa and Europe, and collaborative strategies to reinforce the multilateral system. 

These discussions will serve as the focal point of the visit, highlighting shared values and mutual interests on the international stage. Further ceremonial engagements include President Stubb's participation in a wreath-laying ceremony at Uhuru Gardens, a site of significant historical importance in Kenya's journey to independence. A state banquet hosted by President Ruto and First Lady Rachel Ruto will follow, providing a platform for cultivating goodwill and reinforcing camaraderie between the delegations. 

Education and knowledge exchange are also central components of President Stubb’s visit. On May 13, he is scheduled to deliver a keynote speech at the University of Nairobi, focusing on geopolitics and the evolving nature of the multilateral order. This address is anticipated to engage students and academics, offering insights into Finland's perspectives on international relations and strategies for navigating an increasingly complex global landscape.

In addition to academic engagements, President Stubb will attend the closing event of the EU-Kenya Business Forum. This forum is a vital platform for enhancing economic ties and promoting trade between Kenya and the European Union. His keynote address is expected to emphasise the role of Finnish businesses in Kenya’s economic development and highlight potential avenues for future collaboration. President Stubb’s visit is designed to extend beyond formal engagements, incorporating elements that provide a comprehensive understanding of Kenyan society at the grassroots level. 

He will visit Kawangware, a residential area in Nairobi, to observe a program funded by the EU and Finnfund that aims to improve digital connectivity. Social development and vocational education are also key areas of Finland’s engagement with Kenya. President Stubb is scheduled to visit a technical education institution and a vocational training company, both of which are part of a project funded by Finland’s Ministry for Foreign Affairs. The project aims to enhance the quality and relevance of vocational training programs to better meet the demands of the labour market, aligning with Finland’s broader commitment to empowering Kenyan youth and supporting the country’s socio-economic advancement.

A notable segment of the visit involves President Stubb’s interaction with international organisations based in Nairobi. He will meet with the Director-General of the United Nations Office in Nairobi (UNON) and the Executive Directors of UNEP and UN-Habitat. Discussions will centre on the future of the United Nations, strategies to support the multilateral system, and the strategic role of UNON in advancing global objectives. 

The state visit will conclude with a formal reception hosted by the Finnish Ambassador to Kenya. President Stubb will be accompanied by high-ranking officials, including Saara-Sofia Sirén, Chair of the Parliamentary Friendship Group with Kenya, and Inka Hopsu, Vice Chair of the Finnish Parliament Group on Global Issues. A delegation of Finnish business leaders representing diverse sectors will also participate, highlighting the importance of trade and commerce in bilateral relations.