By James Murimi - Reporter
Kenya, September 01 , 2026 -President William Ruto has congratulated Zambian President Hakainde Hichilema on his re-election, pledging to deepen Kenya’s relations with Zambia and expand trade and investment between the two countries.
Ruto, who attended Hichilema’s inauguration in Lusaka on Tuesday, said Kenya was ready to work with Zambia to advance shared interests and strengthen economic cooperation.
“Kenya looks forward to deepening our bilateral relations, expanding trade and investment, and advancing our shared interests,” President Ruto said in a message posted on his official Facebook page.
He described Hichilema’s renewed mandate as a strong expression of the confidence Zambians had placed in his leadership and vision for the country’s transformation.
Ruto also linked the two countries’ economic ambitions to the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA), saying greater intra-African trade would provide the continent with a platform to create jobs and drive prosperity.
“Together, we will continue working for a more integrated and prosperous Africa,” he said.
The President wished Hichilema, his administration and the people of Zambia success as they embark on the new term, particularly in translating the renewed mandate into greater prosperity and opportunities for Zambians.
More from Kenya
Ruto was among several African leaders who attended the inauguration ceremony of President Hichilema and Vice-President Mutale Nalumango at the National Heroes Stadium in Lusaka.
The ceremony brought together leaders from across the region, including Namibia’s President Netumbo Nandi-Ndaitwah, Botswana’s President Duma Boko, Zimbabwe’s President Emmerson Mnangagwa and Tanzania’s President Samia Suluhu Hassan.
Also present were Lesotho Prime Minister Sam Matekane and Eswatini Deputy Prime Minister Thulisile Dladla.
Hichilema’s re-election gives Kenya an opportunity to further strengthen its diplomatic and economic engagement with Zambia, particularly through regional and continental trade frameworks.
The emphasis on trade and investment comes as African countries seek to increase intra-African commerce and reduce dependence on external markets through AfCFTA.