President William Ruto held talks with retired US President Barack Obama on Thursday during his three-day State Visit to the United States. The discussions focused on democratic developments, climate change, and peace and security challenges in 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 Blair House in Washington, D.C., just hours before President Ruto’s official reception at the White House. The conversation also reviewed opportunities for Africa’s young and dynamic demographic in tech, innovation, and higher and technical education.
Ruto highlighted that the engagement involved exchanging ideas on how Kenya and Africa can leverage U.S. institutions and technological capacity to advance their interests. Obama expressed his gratitude upon seeing President Ruto, saying it was good to see him again.
“Habari?” Obama greeted Ruto.
“Mzuri sana,” Ruto replied, asking Obama how he had been since they last met.
“Everything is going well so far,” Obama said, welcoming President Ruto to Washington, D.C.
Obama, the 44th President of the United States, has a personal connection to Kenya, as his father was Kenyan. In 2015, Obama became the first sitting US president to visit Kenya, with Ruto then serving as Deputy President to Retired President Uhuru Kenyatta. Obama’s most recent visit to Kenya was in July 2018, after his presidency ended and Donald Trump took office.
During the State Arrival Ceremony at the White House, President Ruto was accorded full military honors, including a 21 Gun Salute. The President and First Lady Rachel Ruto were welcomed by President Joe Biden and First Lady Dr. Jill Biden.
