The United States has assured President William Ruto that Kenya remains central in advancing US-Africa policy.
This follows a decision by US Congress to launch a high-level review of Kenya’s designation as a major non-NATO ally, a status granted just over a year ago in June last year.
The review is part of a Bill sponsored by US Senator James Risch, Chair of the Senate Foreign Relations Committee, aimed at reassessing the status granted to Kenya in June 2024.
Acting US Ambassador Carla Benini said that the US considers Kenya as a footprint for any project intended to be done in Africa.
“Kenya remains central to our US-Africa policy. When we do something in Africa, we do it in Kenya first, and there is a reason for that. It is because of our shared interests and alignment on governance, rule of law, and democracy,” Ambassador Benini said.
On Monday, Ruto hosted a delegation of California State Secretaries and the private sector led by State Secretary of Transportation Toks Omishakin. Also present was US Embassy Charge d'Affaires Carla Benini.
Ruto said the delegation represents the breadth and depth of the people-to-people partnership as well as sub-national partnership.
Speaking during the meeting, Ruto lauded the US-Kenya partnership, saying it is mutually beneficial for the two countries.
“The fact that we are engaging both at the national level, at the state and county level brings into the equation a greater appreciation of what needs to be done jointly,” the President said.
“We appreciate that you have chosen Kenya as part of your footprint around our continent, and I promise you on behalf of Kenya that we are willing, available to partner and see what we can do together in a mutually beneficial engagement between our two countries.”
The President said Kenya and the United States enjoy strong national and sub-national ties, with California, the wealthiest State in the US.
He said California is a key partner in innovation, sustainability, and shared prosperity.
“California’s leadership in technology and climate innovation, together with Kenya’s Silicon Savannah and our vibrant, young, and digitally skilled workforce, creates unmatched opportunities for collaboration,” he said.
