View: Biden compensates for breaching his pledge to tour Africa

Viewpoint: Biden redeems himself for his failed pledge to tour Africa

During the recent visit of President William Ruto and his wife, first lady Rachel Ruto, to the United States, it's clear that US politics played a significant role in the high-profile trip.

President Joe Biden, aiming to consolidate his support among African Americans in his re-election bid, extended a warm welcome to the African leader and his wife, showcasing them at the White House. The first lady's presence during the official state visit added an additional shine to the event under global scrutiny.

Having former President Barack Obama, who is still adored by African Americans, attend the glittering banquet elevated its status as images were broadcast worldwide. The presence of Obama, whose father was Kenyan, solidified a connection between African Americans and the African continent through their president's family lineage.

With a focus on formal displays including national anthems, military salutes, and a press conference, all these symbolic gestures left an indelible mark on African American voters, who are vital to Biden's hopes of re-election. Ruto was counted as only the sixth head of state to receive a state visit from Biden, highlighting Kenya's prominence in US foreign policy.

But there's more at stake in this meeting - partnerships between the United States and Kenya have exceeded 60 years, a testament to the lasting relationship. The seemingly turbulent history with Ruto, who was once investigated by the International Criminal Court for some of the worst atrocities in 2007's violent elections, has now led to a stronger alliance. This was cemented when Ruto, who was once opposed by the United States, joined hands with Kenyatta, the sitting president at the time in 2013.

Today, Kenya has a peacefully reigning leader and Ruto calls the country the "anchor" of East and Central Africa. As a stable force in an ongoing tide of unrest on the continent, Kenya is vital to US interests. Ruto's state visit showcaed the importance of the Kenyan-American alliance during a time when both are facing challenges posed by China and Russia.

Both nations have aggressively expanded their interests in Africa. Although China has been the more active player, developing numerous infrastructural projects across the continent, Russia is also looking to build more influence in Africa. The United States' relations with Africa could use a significant boost to counter China and Russia, which are competing for continental favor.

Following the lead of presidents before him, Biden's visit to the African continent would have fostered stronger US-African connections and undermined the growing influence of America's global rivals. However, Biden's failure to fulfill his pledge to visit the continent and prioritize relations with Africa has allowed his adversaries to seize the opportunity.

The benefits of an established relationship with Kenya include securing American interests and promoting trade relations. Kenya, with a young and educated populous keen on American products and services, presents easier entry for American businesses. Additionally, Kenya's fair governance also benefits the nation, helping steady its economy.

Furthermore, Kenya's contribution of its security forces to Haiti has brought it international attention and monetary aid. This has been crucial in counteracting the unruliness of gangs that have wreaked havoc in the Caribbean island nation, raising the stakes for the Kenyan economy and international assistance.

Another influential aspect is that Kenya's tech-savvy workforce and renewable energy make it a powerful nation with a growing role on the global stage. Added to that is the fact that the United States is Kenya's biggest trade partner. In light of these factors, Ruto's visit emphasized the prospect of a continuous political and economic partnership between the two nations.

Although Kenya maintains friendly ties with rival nations, this visit also points to the ongoing relationship between the United States and Kenya, as a buffer against Chinese and Russian encroachment in Africa. Economic ties between the two are set for improvement, which will be beneficial for both the American and Kenyan business communities.

Ruto's delegation held discussions with leaders from Coca-Cola and Delta Airlines, who are said to be interested in purchasing a share of Kenya's prominent airline, Kenya Airways. More economic news is anticipated in the coming days and weeks as a result of this state visit.

Biden and Ruto both stand to benefit from the meetings that took place this week in Washington. Ruto departs the United States with a new title as a "major non-NATO ally," bolstering his administration and ensuring the protection of his country. In addition, he was assured that the essential African Growth and Opportunity Act, which grants African states duty-free access to the US market, would be extended.

Sadly, the one thing that may be foremost in Ruto's thoughts is something the US cannot offer — a solution to the detrimental impact of climate change on the African continent. Within recent weeks, over 250 individuals have perished in the worst flooding in Kenya in over a decade, and it seems that the situation will only deteriorate. Unfortunately, even though President Biden might desire to cease the rains and counteract global warming, this power is not within the purview of any president. However, he can aid America in becoming a more prominent player in African affairs.

Ruto's visit provided Biden with the chance to reestablish a personal and public connection to Africa, reset with African American voters, and pledge to make amends. Biden has promised to travel to the continent, which he now says he'll do next year. This will be feasible if US voters, including Black Americans, reelect him.