Ruto Flies To New York For UNGA

President William Ruto has left the country for the United States to attend the 80th session of the United Nations General Assembly (UNGA) in New York.

The Assembly, which opened September 9, concludes on September 29.

The highlight of the session will be the high-level week, beginning on September 22 with a commemorative meeting to celebrate the UN’s 80th anniversary.

That same afternoon, the UN will host the “SDG Moment,” a flagship event to rally global action towards achieving the Sustainable Development Goals.

From September 23-29, world leaders will take to the podium for the general debate.

Heads of state and government are expected to outline their visions on pressing global issues including conflicts, climate change, economic recovery and reform of international institutions.

Ruto is expected to table enhanced climate action plans.

Nairobi has consistently championed climate adaptation financing and hosts the Africa Climate Summit, making its delegation’s voice particularly influential in New York.

The UN global compact leaders summit will also run on September 23, bringing together businesses, civil society and governments to explore private-sector contributions to sustainable development.

Climate will take centre stage on September 24, during a special summit where countries are expected to present updated commitments to cut emissions and fund adaptation.

In parallel, a series of thematic events will highlight global health priorities.

These include a September 25, high-level meeting on noncommunicable diseases, mental health and well-being, as well as discussions on strengthening primary health care and financing resilient health systems.

Prime Cabinet Secretary Musalia Mudavadi has already arrived in the country ahead of the summit.

Apart from the UN general assembly, the president has lined up a series of activities in the US which includes deepening bilateral ties, forging new alliances, and attracting partnerships aimed at spurring investment, innovation, and sustainable growth.