Ruto, Gabon’s Nguema push for unity, youth empowerment and peace at State House talks

President William Ruto, on Monday, hosted Gabon’s President Brice Oligui Nguema at State House, Nairobi, for high-level talks centred on strengthening bilateral ties and advancing Africa’s development agenda during the Africa Forward Summit.

The two leaders used the meeting to call for deeper continental unity, with President Ruto stressing that Africa’s future depends on leaders working together with a shared vision.

“Unity of African leaders is the firmest foundation required to secure the future of the continent,” Ruto said, underscoring the need for collective responsibility in shaping Africa’s destiny.

He added that African states must take ownership of their challenges and solutions.

“It is therefore crucial that leaders be united in purpose, bold in vision, and determined to shape Africa’s destiny through African solutions to African challenges,” he said.

A major focus of the discussions was education and youth empowerment, with both Kenya and Gabon agreeing to expand cooperation in scholarships, technical and vocational training, and knowledge exchange programmes.

Ruto said the partnership would be key in equipping young people with skills needed for economic transformation.

“Kenya and Gabon will deepen cooperation in education through expanded scholarship opportunities, technical and vocational training, and knowledge exchange programmes aimed at equipping our young people with skills to drive Africa’s economic transformation,” he said.

Peace and security also featured prominently in the talks, with both leaders reaffirming their commitment to African-led solutions in resolving conflicts across the continent.

Ruto emphasised the importance of protecting civilians and promoting dialogue in conflict-affected regions.

“Our two nations remain firmly committed to African-led initiatives that silence the guns, protect civilians, and create the conditions necessary for dialogue, stability, and sustainable development across the continent,” he said.

The leaders also agreed to strengthen cooperation with the African Union in peacebuilding efforts, particularly in the Great Lakes Region and the Horn of Africa, including support for mediation initiatives and regional stability programmes.

On international engagement, President Ruto also sought Gabon’s backing for Kenya’s candidate for judge at the International Criminal Court (ICC), Supreme Court Judge Njoki Ndung’u.

The meeting concluded with both presidents reaffirming their commitment to closer cooperation, mutual respect and shared continental goals, with Ruto noting that stronger partnerships between African nations are key to achieving long-term peace, stability and sustainable development.