Ruto hails Fujian's modernisation journey as blueprint for Kenya's growth

President William Ruto has expressed deep encouragement for the modernisation journey of Fujian, China, noting that it represents many of Kenya's neighbourhoods.

Speaking on the bond of friendship between Fujian and Kenya, Ruto emphasised the importance of mutual learning and collaboration towards a progressive relationship that benefits both countries.

“The relationship and the bond of friendship between Fujian and Kenya is a signal that together we can learn from one another and we can work together towards a mutually progressive relationship that carries people along,” he said.

Ruto spoke on Friday when he, First Lady Mama Rachel Ruto and Prime Cabinet Secretary Musalia Mudavadi toured Fujian.

"It is a wonderful journey, it is something that resonates very well with me as a person, how to carry people from the grassroots, making sure that there are education facilities, health facilities, development infrastructure, roads, rail, and much more importantly.”

Ruto pointed out the significant role of grassroots engagement in driving transformation, highlighting how both the government and private sector work together to bring about meaningful change.

The president further reflected on the progression from rudimentary grassroots housing to modern cities in Fujian, noting the importance of proper planning in creating decent housing for people, which brings dignity to citizens.

"I have seen the progression from very rudimentary grassroots housing progressively to modern cities that I have seen and how proper planning brings together decent dwelling places, housing for people that carries with it dignity for citizens," Ruto added.

The President said the Ningde Poverty Alleviation Exhibition Hall is a powerful demonstration of the possibilities that can be achieved through modernisation when there is will, coordination and synergy in leadership.

“The foresight and persistence of its present and past leaders, including President Xi Jinping, have pulled this hilly metropolis from abject poverty within a generation,” he said.

“We endeavour to apply some of these valuable lessons from Ningde City, and China in general, to The Plan on poverty eradication efforts in Kenya.”

Ningde City is the Contemporary Amperex Technology Company Limited (CATL) in Fujian Province.

Ruto is on a state visit to China, which began on Monday, April 21, 2025, and  will end on Saturday, April 26, 2025.