Museveni, Ruto’s daughter discuss investment

By Skika Reporter

President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni on Thursday met Charlene Ruto, daughter of Kenyan President William Ruto, to discuss industrialisation and investment opportunities aimed at accelerating development across Africa.

According to a press release issued by the State House Uganda press unit, the meeting took place at State Lodge Nakasero in Kampala and focused on strengthening regional cooperation, particularly in value addition within the leather sector.

The statement said both parties explored ways of promoting industrial growth as a pathway to economic transformation on the continent.

President Museveni expressed appreciation for Charlene’s interest in investing in Africa, stressing that value addition is key to job creation and wealth retention.

“Africa must process its raw materials locally. How do we create jobs for our young people if we continue exporting raw materials and importing finished goods? That is where there is a big hemorrhage,” Mr Museveni said.

The President reiterated his long-held view that sustainable development depends on regional collaboration and building local manufacturing capacity.

Charlene briefed Mr Museveni on her family’s involvement in business and manufacturing in Kenya, and outlined her interest in expanding partnerships within the region. Kenyan media reports indicate that she is engaged in ventures spanning real estate, farming and youth empowerment initiatives, and is associated with family investments in hospitality and commercial agriculture in Eldoret.

She is also reported to be leading initiatives focused on climate change, food security and youth development.

During the meeting, Charlene congratulated Mr Museveni on his victory in Uganda’s January 2026 general election. According to the Electoral Commission of Uganda, Mr Museveni secured 71 per cent of the vote, although the results have been disputed by leading opposition parties.

Charlene said her team is keen on strengthening regional supply chains and deepening cooperation with Uganda as part of broader efforts to boost intra-African trade.

The engagement underscores ongoing efforts by leaders and private sector actors in East Africa to promote industrialisation and expand cross-border investment as a means of driving economic growth on the continent.