Eldoret Human Rights Activist Defends President Ruto's Foreign Trips, Says They Are Key to Kenya's Economic Transformation

 Eldoret-based human rights activist Kipkorir Ngetich has come out strongly in support of President William Ruto's international engagements, arguing that the Head of State's foreign trips are vital for advancing Kenya's economic interests, attracting investment, strengthening diplomatic relations, and creating opportunities for Kenyan citizens.

Speaking in Eldoret on Sunday, Ngetich dismissed criticism directed at the President over his frequent international travel, describing such attacks as politically motivated and lacking a proper understanding of the role diplomacy plays in national development.

According to Ngetich, President Ruto, as Kenya's Head of State and Government, serves as the country's chief diplomat and has a constitutional responsibility to represent and promote Kenya's interests on the global stage.

"The President is the number one diplomat of the Republic of Kenya. His role extends beyond managing affairs within our borders. He has a duty to engage the international community, attract investors, build strategic partnerships, secure opportunities for Kenyans, and strengthen Kenya's position in global affairs," Ngetich said.

He noted that diplomacy and international relations remain among the most important drivers of economic growth in the modern world, adding that nations that actively engage foreign governments, development partners, and international investors are better positioned to achieve sustainable development.

"Foreign direct investment does not happen by accident. Trade agreements are not signed by chance. International partnerships require deliberate engagement and sustained diplomatic efforts. President Ruto has demonstrated a commitment to positioning Kenya as a preferred destination for investment and international cooperation," he stated.

Ngetich further argued that President Ruto has established stronger ties with foreign governments and the global business community than many of his predecessors, helping to raise Kenya's profile internationally and creating new opportunities for trade and investment.

He said the President's frequent invitations to visit various countries should be viewed as evidence of Kenya's growing influence and relevance in international affairs.

"The fact that many countries continue inviting President Ruto for bilateral and multilateral engagements speaks volumes about the respect Kenya commands globally. It shows that our nation is increasingly being recognized as a strategic partner in regional and international development," he said.

The activist maintained that many of the President's foreign visits have produced tangible benefits for the country, including investment commitments, market expansion opportunities, labour agreements, infrastructure partnerships, technology transfer arrangements, and strengthened diplomatic relations.

He pointed to economic diplomacy as one of the most effective tools available to governments seeking to improve the welfare of their citizens.

"Today's global economy is highly interconnected. Countries compete for investments, export markets, technology, tourism, and skilled employment opportunities. Kenya cannot isolate itself from the rest of the world and expect to achieve meaningful economic growth. The President's engagements are aimed at ensuring Kenya remains competitive and relevant in the global marketplace," Ngetich explained.

The human rights activist also highlighted the importance of presidential diplomacy in creating employment opportunities for Kenyan youth through labour mobility agreements and international workforce partnerships.

"Many young Kenyans have benefited from opportunities created through bilateral agreements with foreign governments. These arrangements are helping address unemployment challenges while enabling Kenyans to contribute to economies abroad and support their families back home through remittances," he said.

Ngetich criticized what he termed as coordinated campaigns by some bloggers, political actors, and sections of the media to portray the President's foreign trips negatively.

He alleged that certain individuals have deliberately sought to create a narrative that undermines the significance of the President's diplomatic efforts.

"We have observed a pattern where every foreign trip undertaken by the President is subjected to criticism regardless of its purpose or outcome. Such criticism often ignores the long-term benefits associated with diplomatic engagement and international cooperation," he said.

While acknowledging the important role played by the media in holding leaders accountable, Ngetich urged journalists and commentators to evaluate the President's foreign engagements objectively and based on measurable outcomes rather than political considerations.

"The media plays a critical role in any democratic society. However, patriotism also requires giving fair coverage to initiatives that have the potential to benefit the nation. The success of diplomatic missions should be assessed through facts, investment outcomes, trade opportunities, and economic impact rather than political rhetoric," he stated.

Ngetich further argued that economic growth, resource mobilization, peace, and national security can only be effectively achieved when governments engage both domestic and international stakeholders.

"No country develops in isolation. The world's most successful economies are products of strong international partnerships, trade relationships, and strategic diplomacy. Leaders must constantly seek opportunities wherever they exist, and President Ruto deserves recognition for actively pursuing such opportunities on behalf of Kenya," he said.

The activist described President Ruto as a determined and forward-looking leader who understands the changing dynamics of global politics and economics.

"President Ruto is sharp, articulate, persuasive, and focused on ensuring Kenya does not miss opportunities that can transform the lives of its citizens. He understands that every international engagement presents a chance to secure investments, attract development financing, create jobs, and expand Kenya's influence globally," Ngetich said.

He encouraged Kenyans to support initiatives aimed at accelerating economic growth and improving the country's competitiveness, saying development should remain a collective national objective beyond political divisions.

"Whether one supports the government or belongs to the opposition, every Kenyan should support efforts that promote investment, create jobs, strengthen security, and improve livelihoods. National development should not become a casualty of partisan politics," he remarked.

Ngetich also challenged opposition leaders to provide alternative policy proposals rather than focusing solely on criticizing government initiatives.

He argued that any administration seeking to govern Kenya would inevitably pursue international partnerships and diplomatic engagements because such efforts are essential for economic growth and national development.

"The reality is that every serious government must engage the international community. Economic diplomacy is not an option; it is a necessity. Those criticizing these efforts today would likely pursue similar strategies if entrusted with leadership responsibilities," he said.

The activist concluded by urging President Ruto to remain focused on his agenda despite criticism, expressing confidence that the long-term benefits of his diplomatic engagements would become increasingly evident.

"The President should remain steadfast and continue pursuing opportunities that can benefit Kenya. The world is moving rapidly, and nations that fail to engage effectively risk being left behind. Kenya has enormous potential, and it is encouraging to see our leadership actively seeking global partnerships that can contribute to economic transformation, stability, and prosperity."

Ngetich reiterated that Kenya's future prosperity will depend on strong leadership, strategic international engagement, and the ability to leverage global opportunities for national development, adding that the country should embrace initiatives that strengthen its standing within the international community and open new pathways for growth and progress.