President Joe Biden and the first lady are currently hosting Kenyan President William Ruto and First Lady Rachel Ruto on an official state visit at the White House, commemorating 60 years of diplomatic ties between the U.S. and Kenya. The grandeur of the occasion is evident on the south lawn, complete with a ceremonial band playing in the background.
This visit holds significant importance as it marks the first official state visit of an African leader since 2008. Notably, the backdrop of China's growing influence in Africa has played a role in the timing of this visit, as the U.S. and China vie for economic and geopolitical supremacy in the region.
The agenda for today's meetings covers a wide array of topics, including plans to elevate Kenya from a regional to a global partner, discussions on private sector investments, and the mutual emphasis on democracy. Both nations are set to unveil the 'Nairobi Washington Vision,' a document aimed at urging creditors to assist African countries in alleviating financial burdens. Additionally, Kenya is expected to be designated as a major non-NATO ally, underscoring the efforts to fortify the alliance between the two countries.
President Biden's commitment to Africa, as expressed in his statement of being 'all in on Africa' in 2022, has been hindered by various international conflicts, preventing him from visiting the continent as promised. However, today's discussions during the three-day visit, culminating in a state dinner, signify a continued effort to strengthen the bond between the U.S. and Kenya.
