Ruto hosts President Diomaye Faye at State House, Nairobi

President William Ruto on Tuesday morning hosted his Senegalese counterpart Diomaye Faye at State House, Nairobi.

President Diomaye was making an official visit since arriving in the country on Sunday, ahead of the Mashujaa Day celebrations scheduled for Monday in Kitui County.

He was the chief guest at the celebrations.

He was received by Youth, Creative Economy, and Sports Cabinet Secretary Salim Mvurya upon arrival at the Jomo Kenyatta International Airport (JKIA).

In addition to participating in the national celebrations, Faye is also set to undertake an official visit aimed at strengthening bilateral relations between Kenya and Senegal.

The visit is expected to focus on enhancing cooperation in areas such as trade, energy, innovation, youth empowerment, and cultural exchange.

In his address, Diomaye hailed Kenya as a model of resilience and democratic progress in Africa, commending the country’s commitment to peace and regional cooperation.

He said the friendship between Senegal and Kenya was rooted in shared values of freedom, justice, and Pan-Africanism; principles embodied by leaders such as Raila and Kenya’s founding fathers.

“Our nations share a history of struggle and a vision of an Africa that is united, peaceful, and sovereign,” Diomaye noted.

“Kenya’s journey has been a source of inspiration to many across our continent.”

The Senegalese leader’s visit comes amid growing bilateral ties between Nairobi and Dakar, with both governments seeking to strengthen cooperation in trade, innovation, youth empowerment, and renewable energy.

Diomaye, who took office in April 2024 as Africa’s youngest elected head of state, said the two nations were committed to advancing partnerships that promote sustainable development and the empowerment of African youth.

Speaking during Mashujaa Day celebrations at Ithookwe Stadium in Kitui County on October 20, President Faye said the government and people of Senegal stood in solidarity with Kenya during its period of mourning.

Diomaye described Raila as a great leader and a pillar of African democracy.

“Before I begin, I would like first to take this opportunity to renew the heartfelt condolences of the people of Senegal to the brotherly people of Kenya on the passing of Raila Odinga, a former Prime Minister and a great leader in the political history of Kenya,” he said.

“I pay tribute to his memory and express my deep compassion to President William Ruto, to his family, and to the people of Kenya. May his soul rest in peace.”

Raila passed away on October 15, 2025, in India, where he had gone to seek treatment.

He was laid to rest on Sunday, October 19, 2025.