President William Ruto’s Itinerary As He Begins His Visit To the United States of America

President William Ruto departed the country yesterday evening for a historic visit, the first State Visit by a Kenyan Head of State in two decades and the first by an African Head of State since 2008

President Ruto’s visit begins in Atlanta at the Carter Presidential Library & Museum, emphasizing the importance of global collaboration. At Ebenezer Baptist Church, he will honor the civil rights struggle, reflecting on historical struggles for equality and justice. At the CDC Headquarters, he will focus on the U.S.-Kenya Health Partnership, announcing a new CDC-KEMRI partnership. The President and First Lady will then engage with Kenyans living in Atlanta, highlighting the diaspora’s role in national transformation as part of the BETA Agenda.

On Tuesday, May 21: Ruto starts his day at Spelman College, discussing higher education’s role in enhancing Kenya’s human capital and attracting tech investments. At Tyler Perry Studios, President Ruto will explore opportunities in the creative economy, promoting robust partnerships between Kenya and the US. He will visit Coca-Cola to announce new investment partnerships and launch VIVO’s inaugural store in America, showcasing Kenyan women entrepreneurs. Mayor Andre Dickens of Atlanta and the Atlanta CEO’s Council will host the President to position Kenya as a regional manufacturing hub.

Wednesday, May 22: The President and First Lady travel to Washington, D.C., arriving at Andrews Airforce Base for an official reception with full ceremonial honors. President Ruto will engage with a bipartisan congressional delegation, the Black Congressional Caucus, and a Bipartisan Caucus of the Senate. He will urge Congress to extend the AGOA Act, ensuring continued preferential access for African goods to U.S. markets.

Thursday, May 23: The main day of the State Visit includes laying a wreath at Arlington National Cemetery to honor American soldiers and significant figures like Thurgood Marshall and John F. Kennedy. President Ruto will hold bilateral meetings with President Biden, discussing economic, health, and security partnerships, as well as regional and multilateral issues. A joint press conference at the White House will follow, and the President will deliver a keynote speech on climate solutions at the Smithsonian. The day concludes with a State Dinner at the White House.

Friday, May 24: The visit concludes with strategic engagements promoting Kenya as a prime destination for U.S. investments. A digital roundtable discussion hosted by VP Harris will explore expanding the U.S.-Kenya digital partnership. Finally, a visit to the Pentagon will highlight the Kenya-US defense partnership against terrorism, extremism, and emerging threats like cybersecurity.