White House State Dinner: Obama and other stars woo Kenya's Ruto

The White House pulled out all the stops for Kenya's President William Ruto and his wife Rachel with a State Dinner that included celebrity guests, a succulent menu and electric performances.

US President Joe Biden and First Lady Jill Biden ensured no expense was spared in honouring Kenya, one of their closest allies in sub-Saharan Africa.

The Kenya first couple were accompanied by three of their daughters and were all pictured on the red carpet ahead of the evening's entertainments.

State Dinners are organised by the First Lady and her staff and involve much pomp and circumstance.

The invitation list, menu, flowers - all pink orchids and red roses for Thursday - and table settings are all meticulously planned.

It was also a chance to see great fashion, here US Vice-President Kamala Harris dazzled in a green ensemble and other guests chose an African theme.

The US Vice-President Harris was accompanied by second gentleman Douglas C Emhoff. Entrepreneur Caroline A Wanga and Barkue Tubman were pictured together on their arrival

The black-tie event was a star-studded affair with celebrities from the screen such as Black Panther actress Danai Gurira, who is from Zimbabwe, and LeVar Burton, who made his name playing Kunta Kinte in Roots.

Ndidi Okonkwo Nwuneli, CEO of the One campaign.  LeVar Burton attended with his wife and fellow actor Stephanie Cozart Burton

Former President Bill Clinton and his wife Hillary were also there - and ex-President Barack Obama, whose father was Kenyan, swooped in with a surprise appearance.

Minnesota politician Ilhan Omar, who was born in Somalia, was also in attendance.

Reports say Mr Obama only stayed for a brief time. Also present was former US Secretary of State Hillary Clinton who was seen conversing with civil rights campaigner Al Sharpton.

Ilhan Omar was accompanied by her husband Tim Mynett

The mouth-watering menu, which primarily showcased American cuisine leaving little room for Kenyan food, included short ribs, lobster and sweet corn.

America's influence on the African continent has been waning in recent years, with countries moving towards China, Russia and Iran. But during this trip, the East African nation has been given the status of non-Nato ally status by the US.

In his toast, President Ruto said: "We proudly take a firm stance, shoulder to shoulder, for democracy in a world where troubles have shaken the faith of men."

Performances from country singer Brad Paisley and the gospel choir of Howard University enchanted the guests.

Country singer Brad Paisley wore his signature cowboy hat

This might have been a nod to President Ruto who not only likes country music but is Kenya's first evangelical Christian president.

The Howard University Gospel Choir in full voice