Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua is embarking on a crucial three-day trip to Belgium, where he will represent Kenyan President William Ruto at the forthcoming Gateway Global Forum. This significant event, hosted by the European Commission in Brussels on October 25, aims to foster stronger ties between the European Union (EU) and its partner nations, Kenya included. The forum will explore key sectors such as digital innovation, renewable energy, transportation, healthcare, and education. Over 40 high-level government representatives, along with financial institutions, private sector entities, civil societies, and international organizations, will convene over the two-day event.

Aside from his role as Ruto’s envoy, Gachagua will utilize the trip to promote Kenyan agricultural produce, aligning with his recent efforts to streamline the tea and coffee sectors. The Deputy President will also engage in sideline discussions with Ursula von der Leyen, the President of the European Commission, during the forum. Furthermore, Gachagua plans to meet Kenyan citizens residing in Belgium and extend his travels to Germany, where he will partake in various engagements related to coffee, climate change, renewable energy, and more.

Notably, Gachagua recently disclosed that the Kenyan government is finalizing an agreement with the American coffee giant, Starbucks, facilitated by the U.S. Ambassador to Kenya. This agreement would enable Starbucks to directly purchase coffee from Kenyan farmers. Since taking office as Deputy President, Gachagua has been actively driving a series of reforms in the agriculture sector, aimed at eradicating cartels and bringing transformative changes to the industry. This trip holds great promise for strengthening international relations and fostering opportunities for Kenya’s agricultural exports.