Antonio Guterres in Kenya to strengthen partnerships, address regional issues

UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres. [AFP]

UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres arrived at Jomo Kenyatta International Airport (JKIA) in Nairobi on Wednesday, March 3, 2023.

He was received by Foreign and Diaspora Affairs Cabinet Secretary Alfred Mutua.

Guterres is making his second trip to Kenya, following his previous visit in July 2019 during which he had a meeting with the former President of Kenya, Uhuru Kenyatta.

The two leaders discussed issues relating to climate change and the strong partnership between Kenya and the UN.

A meeting between him and President William Ruto is expected to centre on the security and humanitarian crisis in Sudan that has been characterized by persistent conflicts.

In a previous address, Ruto underscored the significance of backing the United Nations' initiatives in Sudan and enabling the safe migration of individuals.

"The situation in Sudan continues to concern neighbours and friends as well as the international community. At the request of several United Nations agencies operating in Sudan, I have today spoken with my Egyptian counterpart, Abdel Fatah El-Sisi, who shares Kenya's position that as regional states, we should support the UN agencies and their activities, particularly efforts to alleviate the impact of the conflict and facilitate the movement of people to safety," said Rutu.

Ruto called on neighbouring states to take necessary measures to facilitate the safe movement and reception of people seeking safety in Sudan.