On Thursday, President William Ruto engaged in discussions with retired US President Barack Obama during his three-day State Visit to the United States. Their talks focused on democratic developments, climate change, and the peace and security challenges facing Africa.
“I have had a productive engagement with the Former President of the United States of America Barack Obama. We exchanged views on democratic developments, climate and peace and security challenges in Africa,” Ruto posted on his X account.
The meeting took place at the Blair House in Washington, D.C., just hours before President Ruto’s official reception at the White House. President Ruto mentioned that their discussion also covered opportunities for Africa’s young and dynamic population in the fields of technology, innovation, and higher and technical education.
They exchanged ideas on how Kenya and Africa can leverage U.S. institutions and technological capacity to advance their interests. Obama expressed his gratitude, stating it was good to see President Ruto again.
“Habari?” Obama greeted Ruto.
“Mzuri sana,” the President replied as he asked Obama how he had been since they met.
“Everything is going well so far,” Obama said. He welcomed President Ruto to Washington DC.
Obama, the 44th President of the United States, has familial ties to Kenya through his Kenyan father. During his presidency, in 2015, Obama made history by becoming the first sitting U.S. president to visit Kenya.
At that time, Ruto held the position of Deputy President under Uhuru Kenyatta. Obama’s most recent visit to Kenya occurred in July 2018, after he had left office, allowing Donald Trump to assume the presidency. Meanwhile, on Thursday, Ruto received full military honors, including a 21 Gun Salute, during the State Arrival Ceremony held at the White House in Washington, D.C. Both President Ruto and First Lady Rachel Ruto were welcomed by President Joe Biden and First Lady Dr. Jill Biden at the event.
