In the evolving relationship between Kenya and the United States, Ruto’s Visit is first state visit by an African leader to the US in 15 years, highlighting Kenya’s growing significance in East Africa’s geopolitical landscape.
Kenya has been an ally with USA since they gained their independence in 1963, though the relationship has encountered challenges over the decades, there has been notable improvement in recent years.
“Since President Ruto came to power two years ago, things have gotten much better. This visit speaks to the growing importance of this partnership,” according to Senior African Overseers
This Visit has encountered the measures of Africa – Kenya relation to US as per intertrade, the so called Strategic Trade and Investment Partnership (STIP) aimed to bridge, enhancing commercial relations and laying the groundwork for stronger economic engagement.
With a key Security note, US to majorly Kenya a non-NATO ally, which makes Kenya the first Sub Sahara African country with such a special designation. As Kenya was crucial in fighting the AL Shabab in Somalia.
Ruto showed appreciation for the “collaboration the United States has given Kenya to make sure we undertake our responsibilities in securing our region.”
But Ruto is securing more than his own region. Around 1,000 Kenyan police officers are set to arrive in Haiti to fight gang violence. The US is “firmly committed to supporting” this action, national security advisor Jake Sullivan recently said.
Last year, both countries signed an agreement that will guide defense relations for the next five years as al-Shabab continues to drive violence in the region.
However, while it seeks to maintain strong ties with the US, Kenya also engages with China and Russia, particularly with regards to business.
The Kenya – US Ally, strengthens and Solidify the African fraternity at Large, ”William Ruto”
