In a significant diplomatic engagement, U.S. President Joe Biden welcomed Kenyan President William Ruto to the White House on Thursday, heralding a new era of partnership focused on technology, security, and debt relief. This state visit is part of Washington’s renewed commitment to strengthening ties with Africa, a region increasingly influenced by China’s economic footprint.
The U.S. aims to reaffirm its support for democratic values and economic partnerships on the continent, even as global attention remains fixed on conflicts in Ukraine and Gaza. The day’s events culminated in a grand state dinner in honour of President Ruto, attended by a diverse group of distinguished guests, including singer-songwriter Don McLean, NFL commissioner Roger Goodell, and the CEOs of Walmart and Pfizer. Former Presidents Bill Clinton and Barack Obama also graced the occasion.
“We may be divided by distance, but we are united by the same democratic values,” Biden said, welcoming Ruto on the South Lawn of the White House. He highlighted the celebration of 60 years of diplomatic relations between the U.S. and Kenya following Kenya’s independence.
President Ruto, acknowledging the global challenges to democracy, emphasized the importance of this visit. “My visit takes place at a time when democracy is perceived to be retreating worldwide,” he said, standing alongside Biden, Vice President Kamala Harris, and other cabinet officials. Earlier, Ruto had a private meeting with Biden in the Oval Office.
During their discussions, both leaders identified significant opportunities for the U.S. to recalibrate its strategy and bolster its support for Africa. One of the key announcements from the White House was the designation of Kenya as the first sub-Saharan African country to be a major non-NATO ally, joining a group of nations that includes Qatar and Israel.
President Ruto’s visit to the U.S. began on Monday, starting with a stop in Atlanta before heading to Washington, where he engaged with business executives at the White House on Wednesday. The partnership between Nairobi and Washington extends to various critical areas, including the fight against terrorism in Africa, efforts to stabilize Haiti, and support for Ukraine.