[PHOTOS] Ruto lays wreath at the tomb of the fallen soldiers in Rome, Italy

President William Ruto during the laying of a wreath at the Tomb of the Fallen Soldiers at Piazza Venezia, Rome, Italy, April 20, 2026 /PCS

President William Ruto on Monday began his official visit to Italy with a wreath-laying ceremony at the Tomb of the fallen soldiers at Piazza Venezia in Rome.

The ceremony, held at the historic Altare della Patria monument, is a symbolic tribute to fallen soldiers who died in war.

Ruto’s visit marks the start of a series of high-level engagements aimed at strengthening diplomatic and economic ties between Kenya and Italy.

He is expected to hold talks with President Sergio Mattarella and Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni, as well as attend the Kenya–Italy Business Forum.

The wreath-laying ceremony is a longstanding tradition for visiting heads of state, signifying respect for national sacrifice and shared values.

The visit is also expected to focus on trade, investment and infrastructure partnerships, with Kenya seeking to deepen cooperation with Italy across key sectors, including agriculture and energy.

President William Ruto pays respect at the Tomb of the Fallen Soldiers during a wreath-laying ceremony at Piazza Venezia, Rome, Italy, April 20, 2026 /PCS

President William Ruto bows at the Tomb of the Fallen Soldiers during a wreath-laying ceremony at Piazza Venezia, Rome, Italy, April 20, 2026 /PCS

President William Ruto pays respects at the Tomb of the Fallen Soldiers during a wreath-laying ceremony at Piazza Venezia, Rome, Italy, April 20, 2026 /PCS