President William Ruto's two-day official visit to Italy on April 20-21, 2026, covered a wide range of topics, from global diplomacy and economic reforms to diaspora affairs and even a viral catchphrase. Here is a breakdown of the key messages he delivered: 

1. Critique of Global Peace Systems :  In a major speech at Luiss University, President Ruto strongly criticized global superpowers, including the U.S., for a "dysfunctional" international peace system. He argued that the UN Security Council has lost credibility, as some of its permanent members are accused of violating the very peace they are meant to uphold. He called for urgent reforms to give African nations fair and permanent representation in the council . 

2. Kenya's Economic Transformation & Achievements: During a gathering with Kenyans living in Rome, Ruto highlighted the progress of his administration's economic agenda. He detailed successes such as stabilizing the economy and avoiding a national default (unlike five other African nations predicted to do so), reaching 30.6 million citizens with the new Social Health Authority (SHA) health coverage, constructing nearly 270,000 affordable housing units, and increasing maize production from 44 million to 70 million bags . 

3. Diaspora Engagement and Warning on Misinformation - The President specifically addressed Kenyans in Italy, urging them to be wary of "rampant misinformation" on social media, which he said often paints a falsely negative picture of the country. He also celebrated diaspora contributions, noting that remittances have grown from $4 billion in 2022 to $5.2 billion, and highlighted bilateral labour agreements signed with nations like Germany and Saudi Arabia to protect migrant workers . 

4. Global Role for Africa and Kenya -  Ruto positioned Kenya as a key voice for the African continent, arguing at LUISS University that "Africa must not remain on the margins of the global order" but should stand at its "forefront." He added that Africa's rise is directly tied to Kenya's own future and trajectory . 

5.Strengthening Italy-Kenya Relations (Action Plan) - Following meetings with Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni, the leaders adopted a 2026-2029 Action Plan. This includes a new defense cooperation agreement to address security challenges like maritime security and terrorism, and aims to strengthen cooperation under Italy's "Mattei Plan" for Africa, focusing on infrastructure, renewable energy, and agriculture . 

6. A Light Moment - Using local humor to connect with the diaspora, Ruto playfully asked the crowd, "Mumesikia power?" (Have you heard about power?), referencing a viral Kenyan phrase. He then pivoted to a serious policy point about the government's goal to boost energy generation as a key driver for industrialization . 

7. Energy and Industrial Growth 

President Ruto emphasized the need for reliable and affordable energy to support industrialisation. He highlighted plans to significantly expand Kenya’s electricity capacity to power industries and sustain economic expansion, signaling Kenya’s push towards becoming a more industrialized economy. 

8. Defence and Security Cooperation 

Kenya and Italy also signed a defence cooperation agreement, marking a new phase in security collaboration. This partnership is expected to enhance Kenya’s strategic position in regional security and strengthen ties with global defence partners. 

9. Climate Action and Sustainable Development 

Climate change and sustainable development featured prominently in the discussions. Both countries explored joint initiatives in renewable energy and environmental conservation, aligning with global efforts to combat climate change. 

10. Strengthening Diplomatic Relations 

Overall, the visit aimed at deepening long-standing diplomatic relations between Kenya and Italy. The signing of multiple agreements and memoranda of understanding reflects a shared commitment to long-term cooperation across various sectors. 

 
In a high-stakes three-day state visit to Rome that concluded on April 22, 2026, President William Ruto turned the page on years of diplomatic and contractual friction. Beyond the red carpets of the Quirinale Palace, the trip delivered a series of "tangible wins" for Kenya—most notably the resolution of a multi-billion shilling legal stalemate that had frozen critical infrastructure projects for years.
 
 

1. The Breakthrough: Resurrecting the Stalled Dams

The headline achievement of the visit was the successful negotiation to resume construction on the Itare, Arror, and Kimwarer dams. These projects, once mired in international arbitration and corruption allegations, have been cleared for takeoff.
 
·         Itare Dam Revival: Following talks with Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni and the Italian contractor, CMC di Ravenna, the contractor agreed to withdraw its arbitration cases at the International Chamber of Commerce.
 
·         The Impact: Once completed, the Sh40 billion Itare Dam is expected to supply 100,000 cubic meters of clean water daily to Nakuru County and its environs.
 
“I am happy that finally we have resolved the issues that were outstanding... clearing the way for the construction of one of Kenya's most ambitious water projects," Ruto stated in Rome.
 
2. A Boost for Nyamira Healthcare

Living up to a promise made during his recent tour of the Gusii region, the President successfully secured Ksh 1 billion in funding specifically for the upgrade of Nyamira County Hospital. This investment is part of a broader healthcare partnership aimed at modernizing regional medical facilities and improving specialized care access for residents in Western Kenya.

 

3. Kenya as a Pillar of the "Mattei Plan"

Italy has officially designated Kenya as a pilot country for its Mattei Plan for Africa—a strategic development initiative designed to foster non-predatory, equitable partnerships between Europe and Africa.
 
Key features of the 2026–2029 Action Plan signed in Rome include:

·         Economic Boost: A target to grow bilateral trade beyond the $315 million recorded in 2025.
 
·         Eight New MoUs: Agreements spanning environmental conservation, security sector training, and digital innovation.
 
·         Green Energy: Strengthening ties with Italian energy giant ENI to expand bio-refinery projects and green hydrogen research in Kenya.



4. Addressing the Global Order at LUISS University

On April 21, President Ruto took to the podium at the LUISS School of Government to deliver a stinging critique of the current global financial and political systems. He argued that the United Nations and the World Bank require urgent structural overhauls to remain relevant.
 
"A more just, balanced, and responsive global financial system is an absolute imperative," Ruto told an audience of scholars and policymakers. He emphasized that African nations can no longer be "passive recipients" of global decisions but must be "co-authors" of the new world order.