Kenya Defends Cost of Presidential Jet for US Trip

The Kenyan government has justified the expenses associated with President William Ruto’s trip to the United States.

Invited by US President Joe Biden, Ruto is on a four-day visit to the US. This marks the first state visit by an African leader to the US in sixteen years and the first by a Kenyan president in two decades.

Amid national austerity measures and a cost of living crisis, the decision to charter a jet from the Dubai-based RoyalJet company, instead of using the standard presidential plane, has sparked public outcry.

During the visit, President Ruto is set to meet President Biden on Thursday to discuss trade and security partnerships, including Kenya’s commitment to lead a multinational mission aimed at restoring order in Haiti.

The visit coincides with widespread discontent over the Kenyan government’s plans to raise taxes, which include increasing the cost of bread, mobile money transfers, airtime, and data. These measures aim to generate an additional $2.4 billion in revenue for the upcoming fiscal year starting in July. President Ruto has advised Kenyans to manage their finances carefully.

Contrary to some reports, the US government has denied financing the aircraft used by President Ruto and his delegation.