Ruto congratulates Sanae Takaichi on her election as Japan’s first female PM
By Nancy Marende, October 21, 2025President William Ruto has sent a message of congratulations to Sanae Takaichi following her historic election as the 104th Prime Minister of Japan, making her the first woman to hold the position in the country’s history.
In his message addressed to Prime Minister Takaichi on Tuesday, October 21, 2025, President Ruto lauded her victory as a reflection of the confidence the Japanese people have in her leadership, vision, and commitment to the nation’s progress and prosperity.
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“Your victory is a testament to the confidence reposed in your vision, leadership, and unwavering commitment to the progress and prosperity of the Japanese people,” Ruto stated.
The President reaffirmed Kenya’s commitment to strengthening its longstanding partnership with Japan, emphasising the importance of continued cooperation across key development sectors.
“Kenya deeply values the generous development cooperation that Japan continues to extend across diverse sectors of our national priorities,” he said, noting the two countries’ collaboration in areas such as infrastructure, energy, health, and technology.
Ruto also expressed optimism about deepening bilateral and multilateral ties between Nairobi and Tokyo, especially in addressing emerging global challenges, promoting peace and stability, and advancing sustainable development.
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Reflecting on previous engagements, President Ruto cited his fruitful discussions with Japan’s former Prime Minister during the Ninth Tokyo International Conference on African Development (TICAD 9), where both nations reaffirmed their shared resolve to elevate Kenya–Japan relations.
“My participation in TICAD 9 provided an excellent opportunity to build upon the outcomes of my earlier visit to Japan in February 2024, which focused on advancing private sector-led initiatives for mutual benefit,” he noted.
The President extended an invitation to Prime Minister Takaichi to visit Kenya, saying it would be an honour for the country to host her as both nations work to chart a renewed and ambitious partnership for the future.
“I look forward to engaging with Your Excellency at the earliest mutually convenient opportunity. It would be a singular honour for Kenya to host you, Prime Minister, as we chart a renewed and ambitious path for the future of our partnership,” Ruto concluded.