The commitment was made during his meeting with the Emir of Qatar, His Highness Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani, in Doha, on the sidelines of the Second World Summit for Social Development.
Ruto said the partnership marks a significant step in Kenya’s plan to expand irrigation coverage to nearly two million acres, positioning agriculture at the centre of national economic transformation.
He noted that Qatar’s investment will not only finance key water projects but also help modernise agricultural infrastructure to increase productivity and create jobs.
“Our collaboration with Qatar will be instrumental in bringing new technologies and capital into Kenya’s agriculture sector,” Ruto stated, adding that sustainable irrigation is the cornerstone of his administration’s food security strategy.
The talks also paved the way for Qatar’s participation in Kenya’s Sovereign Wealth Fund and National Infrastructure Fund, two new frameworks aimed at attracting long-term investment for development.
Through these funds, Kenya intends to channel foreign capital into roads, energy, and water projects that can stimulate growth across counties.
Ruto further confirmed that the Kenya Airways–Qatar Airways partnership will be strengthened to improve regional air connectivity, trade, and tourism.
The aviation deal, signed earlier this year, is expected to enhance passenger and cargo movement between Africa and the Middle East.
Beyond the economic agenda, both leaders agreed to step up cooperation in peacebuilding efforts across Africa, particularly in Sudan and the Democratic Republic of the Congo.
Ruto emphasized that regional stability remains a shared priority in Kenya’s diplomatic engagement with Qatar.
The Doha talks underline Kenya’s strategy of aligning international partnerships with its long-term development goals.
With Qatar’s backing, the mega-dam and irrigation projects are now poised to become a defining pillar of Kenya’s bid for food self-sufficiency and rural transformation.