King Charles Mourns Raila Months after his Death
President William Ruto has received a heartfelt condolence message from King Charles III in light of the passing of former Prime Minister Raila Odinga two months ago.
The message, delivered at State House by Ed Barnett, the UK Embassy Charge d’Affaires, conveyed a profound sense of loss and solidarity with Raila’s family and the people of Kenya.
“He points out that he had known the Odinga for his steadfast leadership, willingness to build democratic consensus, open-mindedness, and deep concern for the plight of ordinary people,” Ruto said regarding the King’s message.
The President highlighted that his meeting with Barnett really emphasized how strong the Kenya-UK relationship is becoming.
He pointed out that the strategic partnership established last July has already made a significant impact on bilateral trade, with figures jumping from £1.3 billion (Sh224 billion) to £2 billion (Sh345 billion).
This partnership covers a wide range of areas, including trade, green growth, science and technology, as well as peace and security, and it’s expected to create tens of thousands of digital jobs for Kenyans.
Barnett reiterated the UK’s commitment to supporting Kenya’s development goals, especially with the creation of the National Infrastructure Fund.
He mentioned that Britain is ready to offer technical expertise to help push this initiative forward, which is anticipated to be crucial in enhancing infrastructure across the country.
One of the standout projects under this fund is the Nairobi Railway City, a collaborative effort between Kenya and the UK.
Spanning 438 acres, this project aims to turn Nairobi into a modern, green, and lively transport hub that can accommodate up to 30,000 passengers every hour.
Recently, Ruto and Nairobi Governor Johnson Sakaja visited London’s King’s Cross Station to strengthen the UK partnership for the Sh30 billion project, which is viewed as a benchmark for sustainable urban development.
King Charles’ condolence message comes at a time when the relationship between Kenya and the UK is growing stronger.
This message arrives as both nations are enhancing their collaboration through the renewed Kenya–UK Strategic Partnership for 2025–2030, which was signed in London by Ruto and Prime Minister Keir Starmer.
The partnership focuses on four key areas: trade and investment, green growth and climate action, science and technology, and peace and security.
Officials believe this agreement will open the door to billions in investments and create around 30,000 new digital jobs for Kenyans.
However, the path to cooperation isn’t without its hurdles.
A recent parliamentary report has accused the British Army Training Unit Kenya (BATUK) of a long history of abuses, including sexual violence, environmental harm, and improper disposal of military waste.
Lawmakers are calling for the quick ratification of a new Defence Cooperation Agreement, as the previous one lapsed in 2021.
King Charles has taken a personal interest in the Kenya–UK relationship. During his state visit in 2023, he acknowledged the injustices of colonialism, referring to the “abhorrent and unjustifiable acts of violence” that occurred under British rule.
More recently, he sent heartfelt wishes for Jamhuri Day in December 2025, celebrating Kenya’s achievements and reaffirming the lasting partnership between the two nations.
“I am heartened that climate and nature remain at the forefront of our endeavours, following the renewal of the United Kingdom–Kenya Strategic Partnership this year,” the King said in his December 12, 2025, message.
King Charles Mourns Raila Months after his Death
