King Willem-Alexander and queen Máxima have arrived in Kenya for a three day official visit, despite concerns about the human rights situation in the country.

Critics of the royal trip say it is giving legitimacy to the regime there and some 22,000 people signed a petition calling on the king to cancel the visit.

The Netherlands is the biggest importer of goods from Kenya and diplomatic ties stretch back 60 years.

At the same time, president William Ruto, who came to power in 2022, has been accused of not doing enough to boost the country’s economy. At least 60 people were killed by the authorities in mass protests against government policy last year.

In a short speech on his arrival, Willem-Alexander said the people of Kenya, like those of the Netherlands, want their rights as free citizens to be respected, and their voices to be heard.

“I’m pleased that our countries’ strong and mature relationship allows us to devote attention during this visit to issues like human rights, good governance and accountability,” he said.

“We are grateful to have the opportunity to discuss the concerns that exist in these areas. Later this morning, at the ambassador’s residence, we will be meeting young Kenyans to hear their views on recent developments. What opportunities do they see to build a bright future for the country they love? A future in which everyone can participate on an equal footing.”

The king was referring to a meeting with a group of Kenyan youngsters arranged in an effort to counteract the protests and which has now been included in the official programme.

Nos royalty correspondent Albert Bos said there is clear tension surrounding the visit in both countries. “If the protests gain the upper hand that will overshadow the trip,” he said.

“At the same time, Europe wants to improve ties with African countries to stop them coming under the influence of Russia, China or the Arab emirates.”

The Dutch government’s decision to slash development aid spending is another reason why the king will be “walking on eggshells”, Bos said.

Human rights

“It is incomprehensible that the Dutch king is visiting our country now,” Nyamisa Chelagat told the Volkskrant in the garden of an art gallery in Nairobi.

“The Dutch say they care about human rights,” she said. “I really don’t believe it. The royal couple are supporting a regime that kills its own young people.”