The White House state dinner honoring Kenyan President William Ruto was a star-studded event with around 500 guests, including celebrities such as country singer Brad Paisley, author Barbara Kingsolver, and former President Bill Clinton. The menu for the dinner featured fruitwood-smoked beef short ribs, poached lobster, chilled heirloom tomato soup, and a white chocolate basket. The entertainment for the evening included performances by Paisley and the gospel choir of Howard University, tailored to the musical tastes of the Rutos, who have a love for gospel and country music. The guest list was extensive, leading to the removal of the typical presidential receiving line to accommodate everyone.
The event was the first White House state dinner for an African nation since 2008, reflecting the Biden administration’s efforts to strengthen ties with Africa. President Biden expressed his admiration for Kenya’s history and democratic values, highlighting the shared respect between the U.S. and Kenya. The evening included toasts from both Biden and Ruto, emphasizing their commitment to democracy and global stability. The state visit coincided with Kenya’s preparations to deploy forces to Haiti as part of a U.N.-led mission to address security challenges in the region.
The dinner decor featured a mix of fuchsia and purple African orchids and American roses symbolizing the enduring friendship between the U.S. and Kenya. Guests dined in a transparent pavilion that offered scenic views of Washington, D.C., with over 1,000 candles illuminating the space and creating a magical atmosphere. The event aimed to showcase the strong bond between the two nations and celebrate the cultural richness of both countries. The entertainment line-up included a diverse range of performers, catering to the varied tastes of the guests in attendance.
Notable attendees at the state dinner included actors LeVar Burton, Wilmer Valderrama, and Michaela Coel, along with prominent figures like Sheryl Sandberg, Melinda Gates, and Hunter Biden. The event drew attention to the importance of Africa on the world stage, with guests and speakers emphasizing the need for greater recognition and engagement with the continent. The evening concluded with a vibrant display of music, entertainment, and cultural exchange, reflecting the spirit of unity and cooperation between the U.S. and Kenya. Overall, the state dinner served as a showcase of diplomatic relations and cultural diplomacy between the two nations.
The lavish affair marked a significant moment in White House history, with the largest state dinner hosted by President Biden to date. The event highlighted the administration’s commitment to engaging with Africa and strengthening partnerships with countries on the continent. As the evening came to a close, guests departed with memories of a memorable celebration of friendship, music, and cuisine, underscoring the importance of international cooperation in promoting peace and prosperity. The White House state dinner for President Ruto set the stage for future collaborations and exchanges between the U.S. and Kenya, laying the groundwork for continued dialogue and cooperation on key global issues.
