Ruto Heads to World Urban Forum as Kenya Showcases Affordable Housing Success

President William Ruto while hosting the Bungoma Faith leaders in StateHouse, Nairobi on May 16,2026 PHOTO/PCS

President William Ruto travels to Baku, Azerbaijan, to attend the 13th Session of the World Urban Forum, where Kenya will showcase the success of its Affordable Housing Programme and sustainable urban development efforts.

According to a statement released by State House Spokesperson Hussein Mohamed on May 16,2026, Kenya received the invitation in recognition of its leadership and progress in affordable housing and urban renewal projects.

The World Urban Forum, organised by UN-Habitat, will bring together governments, investors, cities, civil society groups, and development partners to discuss the global housing crisis and sustainable urban development.

During the meeting, Kenya will present the impact of its Affordable Housing Programme in transforming informal settlements, creating jobs, and supporting entrepreneurship.

The government also plans to use the forum to attract partnerships and investments to expand affordable housing projects and urban renewal initiatives, including the Nairobi Rivers Regeneration Programme.

Ruto to Push for More Investment in Housing

Ruto will also use the forum to advocate for innovative financing models and reforms that can increase investment in housing and infrastructure across Africa.

“In his capacity as the global champion for adequate housing, an honour conferred on him by UN-Habitat, President Ruto will advocate innovative financing models and reforms to the global financial architecture to unlock greater investment in housing and infrastructure across Africa,” the statement said.

Also Read:Woman With President William Ruto Tattoo Allegedly Set on Fire

Bilateral Talks With Azerbaijan Leaders

While in Azerbaijan, President Ruto will hold bilateral meetings with Heads of State, investors, and development partners.

He is expected to meet Azerbaijan President Ilham Aliyev to strengthen cooperation in energy, ICT, infrastructure, and Special Economic Zones.

The talks will also focus on expanding markets for Kenyan agricultural exports.

Also Read:How Kenya’s Fuel Prices Compare to Other East African Countries After Latest Increase

State Visit to Kazakhstan

After the forum, President Ruto will travel to Astana, Kazakhstan, for a State Visit focused on trade, logistics, energy, technology, tourism, financial services, and labour mobility.

The President will hold talks with Kazakhstan President Kassym-Jomart Tokayev and witness the signing of agreements on investment, transport, ICT, tourism, and diplomatic cooperation.

Focus on Trade and Technology

The visit will also support plans for a logistics hub at the Port of Mombasa or Lamu.

Kenya and Kazakhstan will further explore cooperation in nuclear energy, cybersecurity, space technology, tea and coffee trade, and financial services.

Follow our WhatsApp channel for instant news updates