This marks the first visit by former President Kenyatta to State House since leaving office in 2022 — a moment that has attracted national attention due to the political distance observed between the two leaders since the 2022 general elections.
The meeting comes at a critical time, as regional tensions continue to mount over the protracted conflict in eastern DRC. Both the EAC and SADC have deployed regional forces in the past to help stabilize the country, and this summit aims to harmonize efforts and coordinate a more unified peace strategy.
Former President Kenyatta, who serves as the African Union’s Facilitator for the EAC-led Nairobi Process on DRC, has been a central figure in mediating between the Congolese government and various armed groups operating in the troubled eastern regions of the country.
President Ruto, currently the EAC Chairperson, is co-hosting the summit, which brings together key leaders and mediators involved in the peace process, including representatives from SADC, the African Union, and the International Conference on the Great Lakes Region (ICGLR).
According to a statement from State House, the two leaders held a private meeting before joining other summit delegates. Discussions reportedly focused on consolidating peace efforts in DRC, aligning regional interventions, and supporting the ongoing dialogue initiatives that have been gaining traction in recent months.
Kenya has played an outsized role in the DRC peace process under both Kenyatta and Ruto. The Nairobi Process — initiated during Kenyatta’s presidency — has continued under Ruto’s administration, with Nairobi hosting several rounds of dialogue between Congolese stakeholders.
Today’s reunion at State House is not only a show of unity on matters of regional importance, but also a gesture that may signal a thaw in the once-fractious relationship between Kenya’s current and former heads of state.
Observers view the renewed engagement as a strong signal that Kenya remains committed to its diplomatic responsibilities in the Great Lakes region, despite internal political differences.
More updates are expected as the summit progresses.
