- Emphasizing his optimism for Kenya's future, Ruto stated that the country was destined for greatness.
- Ruto and First Lady Rachel Ruto are set to be hosted by US President Joe Biden at the White House on May 23.
Image: PCS
President William Ruto expressed excitement about his upcoming state visit to the United States, hailing it as a unique event for an African leader.
Ruto noted that the visit marks the first time in two decades that an African president has been accorded a state visit in the US.
Emphasizing his optimism for Kenya's future, Ruto stated that the country was destined for greatness.
“Kenya is going to be greater than what you see and it is because we believe in the living God,” Ruto said.
Speaking during a crusade presided over by televangelist Benny Hinn at Nyayo National Stadium Sunday night; the head of state said that he has been formally informed about it.
“I have just come from a meeting with the ambassador of the US and she came to tell me that the President of the US has invited the President of Kenya,” he said adding that it was a great privilege to the nation.
Ruto and First Lady Rachel Ruto are set to be hosted by US President Joe Biden at the White House on May 23 marking the 60th anniversary of US-Kenya diplomatic relations.
A state visit is a formal visit by the head of state of one country to the head of state of another country.
The Host country also bears the cost of the expenses incurred during the visit.
State Visits are precisely planned with most focus on diplomatic protocols, and formal ceremonies.
In Kenya for instance, the visiting head of state is accorded a 21-gun salute, inspects a guard of honour, and signs a visitors’ book, among other details.
The host President also hosts a State Banquet for the visiting head of State at his official residence.
White House press secretary Karine Jean-Pierre said in a statement on February 16 that the visit is aimed at celebrating a partnership that is delivering for the people of both countries while affirming "our strategic partnership" with Ruto's country.
She stated it will strengthen the shared commitment to advance peace and security, expand economic ties, and stand together in defense of democratic values.
"The leaders will discuss ways to bolster our cooperation in areas including people-to-people ties, trade and investment, technological innovation, climate and clean energy, health, and security," Jean-Pierre stated.
She added that beyond Kenya, Ruto's visit to Washington will "further the vision" that "African leadership is essential to addressing global priorities.”
The President's statement seems to reflect the significance of diplomatic engagement and his confidence in Kenya's potential progress.