President William Ruto shared that King Charles III of the UK sent him condolences. This followed the death of former Prime Minister Raila Odinga two months earlier.
Ruto spoke on Thursday, December 18, 2025. He said the message came to State House in Nairobi. The UK’s Chargé d’Affaires, Ed Barnett, delivered it. King Charles voiced his own sadness. He offered sympathy to Odinga’s family and Kenyans.
“The King shares his sense of loss. He condoles with the family of the Rt Hon Odinga and the people of Kenya,” Ruto said.
King Charles knew Odinga well. He praised his steady leadership. Odinga built agreement on democracy. He kept an open mind. He cared deeply for everyday people. These qualities shaped his long career in politics.
Ruto and Barnett reviewed Kenya-UK ties. A strategic partnership from last July made them stronger.
Ruto noted clear economic wins. Trade grew from £1.3 billion (about KSh 224 billion) to £2 billion (about KSh 345 billion).
“We take pride in the firm Kenya-UK relations,” Ruto said. “Last July’s strategic partnership lifted them.”
Barnett pledged UK backing for Kenya’s growth goals. He highlighted the National Infrastructure Fund. The UK offers technical experts to help launch it.
Ruto said the fund will boost Kenya’s infrastructure. It supports the bold Nairobi Railway City project. This Kenya-UK effort will turn Nairobi into a modern, green transport hub full of life. It will drive city upgrades and economic gains.
The meeting highlighted close cooperation. Kenya stays active with global partners. This fuels development and respects leaders who built the nation’s democracy.
