Kenya is ramping up its strategy for the prestigious 2026 World Economic Forum (WEF) in Davos, Switzerland, signaling a determined push to champion its economic and geopolitical interests on the world stage.

This initiative crystalized on Monday when Prime Cabinet Secretary Musalia Mudavadi, who also heads the Foreign and Diaspora Affairs ministry, received a comprehensive briefing on the country's preparations. The plan, presented by Foreign Affairs Principal Secretary Singoei Korir, is designed to ensure Kenya's voice is influential when global leaders convene from January 19th to 23rd, 2026.

For the ordinary Kenyan, the high-level dialogues in the Swiss Alps might seem distant. However, the outcomes directly impact job creation, investment, and national security. The forum is a critical venue where Kenya can attract capital for major projects, shape global trade rules, and forge partnerships that drive the Bottom-Up Economic Transformation Agenda (BETA).

Crafting a Global Agenda

President William Ruto is slated to lead the Kenyan delegation, and the preparations underscore the administration's focus on proactive diplomacy. Mudavadi emphasized that the WEF sits at the intersection of the world's most pressing challenges, and Kenya is prepared to offer solutions.

"Kenya stands ready to contribute meaningfully to these conversations as we champion solutions that strengthen our people, our region and the global community," Mudavadi noted.

The key themes for the 2026 meeting align closely with Kenya's national priorities. These include:

• Mastering the Fourth Industrial Revolution: This directly connects to Kenya's ambition to be a digital hub, leveraging technology for economic growth and job creation.
• Safeguarding the Global Commons: Kenya has established itself as a leader in climate action and green energy, a position it seeks to strengthen.
• Responding to Security Threats: As a stabilizing force in a volatile region, Kenya's insights on peace and security are crucial.
• Sustainable Economic Growth: The government aims to showcase Kenya as a premier investment destination, particularly through public-private partnerships.
• Advancing a Just Energy Transition: This involves ensuring that the global shift to clean energy is equitable and benefits developing nations.

A Platform for Partnership

The WEF provides an unparalleled platform for leaders from government, business, and civil society to collaborate. Mudavadi has consistently reiterated Kenya's commitment to multilateralism as the most effective way to solve complex global issues. This approach is central to the country's foreign policy, which seeks to build partnerships based on mutual respect and shared prosperity.

As preparations continue, the focus will be on honing a message that portrays Kenya not just as a participant in global conversations, but as a leader shaping them. The goal is to secure tangible commitments that translate into economic opportunities and a more stable future for all Kenyans.