DP Kindiki Jets Out to Represent Ruto at Commonwealth Summit in Antigua and Barbuda

Deputy President Kithure Kindiki departed Nairobi on Sunday night to represent President William Ruto at the Commonwealth Heads of Government Meeting (CHOGM).

The summit is taking place in St John’s, Antigua and Barbuda, from November 1 to 4, 2026.

In a statement posted on his socials on Sunday, November 1, Kindiki said Kenya will use the forum to advance its strategic national interests and market itself as a stable investment destination.

“Kenya will use this forum to advance its strategic national interests and to project the country as a stable investment destination,” Kindiki said.

The DP further said Kenya will leverage the meeting to network with the 56 member states of the Commonwealth with a combined population of 2.7 billion people spread across Africa, Asia, the Caribbean and Europe.

He added that Kenya will push for collective response to global challenges while seeking more support for its national priorities.

“This important diplomatic engagement through plenary, side events and bilaterals, aims to widen the door for Kenyan businesses, attract more foreign investments and support Kenya’s economic transformation,” he said.

Kindiki noted that overall, Kenya will be selling itself as a stable democracy and a viable investment destination.

“Overall, Kenya will be selling itself as a stable democracy and a viable investment destination seeking to connect its national development priorities with partners who have the capital, technology and skills that are crucial for the next phase of national economic transformation,” he added.

The CHOGM brings together heads of government from Commonwealth nations to discuss trade, climate, security and development.

Commonwealth Summit: What is It About?

This year’s meeting is being held under the theme “Accelerating Partnerships and Investment for a Prosperous Commonwealth.” Its priorities include climate resilience, trade and investment, innovation and sustainable development.

Antigua and Barbuda is the smallest country to have ever hosted CHOGM and is marking 45 years of independence as it hosts the summit. It is the first CHOGM under Commonwealth Secretary-General Shirley Botchwey, who took over from Patricia Scotland.

His Majesty King Charles III, as Head of the Commonwealth, is scheduled to address the opening ceremony on November 3, accompanied by Queen Camilla.

The summit is held every two years and will culminate in the Leaders’ Retreat, a closed-door session restricted to Heads of Government.