Kenya Moves to Ease Diplomatic Strain After Ruto's LDC Comments Spark Regional Backlash
NAIROBI, Kenya
Kenya’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs is working swiftly to mend diplomatic relations after President William Ruto’s recent statements during his visit to China triggered discontent in neighbouring Uganda and Tanzania.
While speaking on market access disparities at a high-level economic forum, President Ruto referenced Uganda and Tanzania as Least Developed Countries (LDCs), comparing their trade benefits to Kenya’s challenges in accessing Chinese markets. The remark, which quickly gained traction online, stirred widespread reactions across East Africa, prompting clarifications from top government officials.
Understanding 'LDC' in Context: Kenya’s Trade Challenges in China
Principal Secretary for Foreign Affairs, Dr. Korir Sing’oei, was quick to address the mounting criticism, stating that Ruto’s remarks were misunderstood and taken out of context. He emphasized that the President was referencing internationally recognized classifications used by organizations such as the United Nations.
“President Ruto was explaining the structural trade disadvantages Kenya faces in markets like China due to its middle-income status,” PS Sing’oei clarified. “Countries categorized as LDCs, such as Uganda and Tanzania, benefit from preferential market terms that Kenya does not qualify for.”
The PS further elaborated that the United Nations created the LDC classification in 1971 to identify nations requiring economic support and duty exemptions in global trade. According to Sing’oei, this framework allows countries like Uganda and Tanzania easier access to certain international markets, while Kenya must negotiate trade deals like the Economic Partnership Agreement (EPA) with the European Union to remain competitive.
Economic Shifts: Kenya Set to Surpass Ethiopia in GDP Ranking
President Ruto’s comments coincided with the release of a new International Monetary Fund (IMF) forecast predicting Kenya’s economic rise. The IMF projects that Kenya’s Gross Domestic Product (GDP) will reach $132 billion in 2025, overtaking Ethiopia, which is expected to drop to $117 billion due to the severe devaluation of its national currency, the birr.
The contrasting economic trajectories highlight Kenya’s growing influence in the region, further amplifying scrutiny over Ruto’s statements. Ethiopia’s currency liberalisation—resulting in a 55% depreciation—was a strategic move to unlock billions in financial support from the IMF and World Bank but came at a significant economic cost.
A Call for Diplomatic Balance
As Kenya continues to assert itself economically and politically in East Africa, its leadership is reminded of the delicate diplomatic balance it must maintain with its neighbours. PS Sing’oei’s swift response underscores the country’s commitment to regional harmony and the importance of context in international dialogue.
The Foreign Affairs Ministry reaffirmed that Kenya values its relationships with Uganda and Tanzania and remains focused on collaborative regional growth, even as it seeks to secure fairer trade terms globally.
