Summary:
- President William Ruto met with President Joe Biden in Washington, D.C. to discuss technology partnerships. Ruto also secured a $175 million investment from Coca-Cola for Kenya and promoted Kenyan brands at a new retail store in Atlanta.
WASHINGTON, (Examiner) – President Joe Biden welcomed Kenyan President William Ruto to the White House for a technology-focused roundtable discussion. Ruto praised the U.S. for its investment in the digital sector, highlighting its potential to transform lives in Kenya and across Africa.
“No partnership is as valuable as one that is anchored on technology,” Ruto stated on Wednesday.
Following this, President Ruto met with House Speaker Mike Johnson and members of Congress, advocating for stronger Kenya-U.S. cooperation to address conflicts and insecurity in the Horn of Africa. He also engaged with Senate leaders Chuck Schumer and Mitch McConnell and was recognized as an Honorary Member of the Congressional Black Caucus (CBC).
During his visit to Arlington National Cemetery, President Ruto honored U.S. fallen heroes. In Atlanta, he encouraged U.S. business leaders to explore Kenya’s investment opportunities, particularly in renewable energy, housing, manufacturing, agriculture, and ICT.
At Coca-Cola’s headquarters, it was announced that the company will invest $175 million over the next five years to expand its operations in Kenya. Ruto also visited the New Vivo Fashion Group Retail Store in Atlanta, praising its inclusion of Made in Kenya brands.
“This is an African spirit where businesses find innovative ways to support each other’s advancement as we take the global stage,” he remarked.
Ruto spoke at Spelman College, signing an education partnership to boost student and faculty exchanges and joint research. At the CDC headquarters, he witnessed the signing of MoUs aimed at enhancing Kenya’s HIV program and public health infrastructure.
The President also met with Kenyans living in the U.S., held discussions with Atlanta Mayor Andre Dickens, and toured Tyler Perry Studios.