Washington, D.C. – The White House was abuzz on Thursday night as President Joe Biden and First Lady Jill Biden hosted Kenyan President William Ruto and his wife, Rachel, for a glamorous state dinner. The event, filled with pomp and circumstance, aimed to strengthen the bond between the United States and Kenya through soft diplomacy and formal gestures of friendship.
During the dinner, President Biden proposed designating Kenya as a major “non-NATO Ally,” signaling a commitment to deepening the partnership between the two countries. This move underscores the importance of fostering strong relationships with strategic international partners like Kenya.
President Ruto’s visit marked the first state visit by a Kenyan president to the United States in two decades, highlighting the significance of the occasion. The state dinner was attended by about 500 guests from various sectors, including business leaders, celebrities, and former presidents.
Throughout the evening, guests were treated to musical performances by renowned artists such as Brad Paisley and the Howard Gospel Choir, adding to the festive atmosphere of the event. The elaborate decor featured American red roses and vibrant African orchids, symbolizing unity and friendship between the two nations.
The menu for the evening, crafted by White House chefs, showcased a three-course meal featuring gourmet dishes like chilled heirloom tomato soup, fruitwood-smoked beef short ribs, and butter-poached lobster. The exquisite dining experience reflected the first lady’s personal touch, with an emphasis on creating a welcoming environment for guests.
Notable attendees at the state dinner included former President Barack Obama, former President Bill Clinton, former Secretary of State Hillary Clinton, and actor Sean Penn. Their presence added a touch of star power to the event, further highlighting the significance of the occasion.
As a gesture of goodwill, the Bidens presented the Rutos with thoughtful gifts, including a set of custom-made rocking chairs and a rare first edition book by Martin Luther King Jr. These tokens of appreciation symbolize the strong bond between the two nations and the importance of fostering diplomatic relationships on a global scale.